May 7, 2013
Happy second birthday, beautiful angel.
Happy second birthday, beautiful angel.
Eb and Gee Gee came over to bring a little cupcake cake so she could "blow away" the candles.
She opened her presents from her Mommy and Daddy.
She opened her presents from her Mommy and Daddy.
After her birthday dinner, we went and got ice cream and then headed home for her 2 year old photoshoot. As good as she is, she's more interested in making silly faces and then running away, so it was a challenge for Dada to get a lot of usable shots!
May 8, 2013
We went for Lizzy's 2nd doctor checkup today. Her lead test came back with no issues. She is right on track for her weight, but wouldn't hold still for a measurement (although I've measured her at home at 36", which is still way up there - over 95th percentile - for her age!)
The doctor was flabbergasted that she knows all her colors, shapes, can count actual quantities, speaks in proper, full sentences, has such an expansive vocabulary, etc. She's off the charts smart.
However, her extreme intelligence coupled with the fact that she doesn't do very well with strangers led the Pediatrician to recommend we enroll Lizzy in pre-school sooner than 3, which is when I was planning on doing it. This is going to be very hard on all of us emotionally, but I know it's best for her in the long run. The search is now on for a good 1-day-a-week program to get us started.
May 9, 2013
Since Lizzy had so much fun playing pretend grocery at the children's museum a few weeks ago, Eb and Gee got her a full-on grocery store play set for her birthday, complete with cart, working conveyor belt, register, etc. She saw it, said "Marsh!" and started playing. Intensely. She loves it!
We went for Lizzy's 2nd doctor checkup today. Her lead test came back with no issues. She is right on track for her weight, but wouldn't hold still for a measurement (although I've measured her at home at 36", which is still way up there - over 95th percentile - for her age!)
The doctor was flabbergasted that she knows all her colors, shapes, can count actual quantities, speaks in proper, full sentences, has such an expansive vocabulary, etc. She's off the charts smart.
However, her extreme intelligence coupled with the fact that she doesn't do very well with strangers led the Pediatrician to recommend we enroll Lizzy in pre-school sooner than 3, which is when I was planning on doing it. This is going to be very hard on all of us emotionally, but I know it's best for her in the long run. The search is now on for a good 1-day-a-week program to get us started.
May 9, 2013
Since Lizzy had so much fun playing pretend grocery at the children's museum a few weeks ago, Eb and Gee got her a full-on grocery store play set for her birthday, complete with cart, working conveyor belt, register, etc. She saw it, said "Marsh!" and started playing. Intensely. She loves it!
While playing, she was also watching a Mickey Mouse where Pete is a scary witch. This is her "scared" face. She makes this face and trembles. It's so funny! This is something she's done since last October, but this is the first time we've captured her scared face on camera. I'm so glad we have it!
May 10, 2013
Playing Marsh is serious business. She checks every item out, rings it up on her scanner and cash register, and places it in her cart. The Marsh card is swiped, and then the cart must be taken outside, and she proceeds to get in her Minnie Mouse car and drive away. I guess she's mimicking the WHOLE transaction she sees us do at the grocery each week, including taking the cart outside and heading home!
May 11, 2013
Lizzy's 2nd birthday party was today!
Saturday morning we finished cleaning, and she loves to help sweep and pick up her toys. She and I had a nice nap while Dada went to get the cake and made snacks for our guests.
Check out this cake - it was beautiful!
Playing Marsh is serious business. She checks every item out, rings it up on her scanner and cash register, and places it in her cart. The Marsh card is swiped, and then the cart must be taken outside, and she proceeds to get in her Minnie Mouse car and drive away. I guess she's mimicking the WHOLE transaction she sees us do at the grocery each week, including taking the cart outside and heading home!
May 11, 2013
Lizzy's 2nd birthday party was today!
Saturday morning we finished cleaning, and she loves to help sweep and pick up her toys. She and I had a nice nap while Dada went to get the cake and made snacks for our guests.
Check out this cake - it was beautiful!
Eb and Gee arrived, and brought Lizzy another present - a lawnmower! She LOVED this, and her favorite part was putting the "gas" in. This gift, along with a water table from her Greatgrandparents, proved to be big hits with all the kids today (possibly more than the animals, if you can believe that!)
The lady with the horses arrived soon after Eb and Gee Gee did. She had a pony, 2 miniature ponies, chickens, a rabbit, goats (including 2 week old baby goats!) and dogs.
Before the animals were set up, it was windy, overcast, and she was in a hat, gloves, and jacket. As soon as it was animal time, the clouds broke, the wind stopped, and the jackets came off. It is as though the sun shone just for her!
Before the animals were set up, it was windy, overcast, and she was in a hat, gloves, and jacket. As soon as it was animal time, the clouds broke, the wind stopped, and the jackets came off. It is as though the sun shone just for her!
Lizzy's party guests arrived around 2:30, and by 2:50, it was animal time!
Lizzy got to ride “Big Red” (his name was really Diablo) as much as she wanted.
Riding #1
Riding #2
Lizzy got to ride “Big Red” (his name was really Diablo) as much as she wanted.
Riding #1
Riding #2
Lizzy loved the animals, and did really great with all the people. It was a tremendous setup.
Soon, animal hour was over and it was time for cake. She "blew away" her candles, and ate tasty cake.
Happy birthday!
Happy birthday!
We had asked that if people wanted to bring a present they bring books, and she got LOTS of books, which is perfect because she loves to read.
She opened her presents, saying thank you to people and simultaneously holding out her hand in their direction. So cute!
She opened her presents, saying thank you to people and simultaneously holding out her hand in their direction. So cute!
A few of our friends stayed late and we had pizza and watched Peter Pan. It was a BIG day, and I was so proud of her for playing so well with the other kids and interacting with the adults. A huge step forward!
May 12, 2013
My third Mother's Day was the best one yet. Lizzy spent her morning engrossed in her new books. This number book, and a corresponding letters book, are her new favorites. So much so that she told me "I like numbers."
May 12, 2013
My third Mother's Day was the best one yet. Lizzy spent her morning engrossed in her new books. This number book, and a corresponding letters book, are her new favorites. So much so that she told me "I like numbers."
At lunch, Lizzy sat down at the table and said "Yummy dinner!" She loves to eat.
We had a lovely nap, and then went to the pool. We pretty much had the pool to ourselves, since no one else was there. We came home and got cleaned up to go to Izakaya for my special dinner. We were lucky - while there was a HUGE wait for the Hibachi Grill side, there was no wait to sit on the sushi side.
With Lizzy's kids meal, she got a Japanese salad. She LOVED the ginger dressing, and kept dipping her crackers in it. I guess we can add ginger dressing to the blue cheese dressing in terms of her favorites.
Once we got home, I got this beautiful photo of the loves of my life. I am so lucky to have them both. They fill my heart to overflowing.
And I think they like each other, too.
We had a lovely nap, and then went to the pool. We pretty much had the pool to ourselves, since no one else was there. We came home and got cleaned up to go to Izakaya for my special dinner. We were lucky - while there was a HUGE wait for the Hibachi Grill side, there was no wait to sit on the sushi side.
With Lizzy's kids meal, she got a Japanese salad. She LOVED the ginger dressing, and kept dipping her crackers in it. I guess we can add ginger dressing to the blue cheese dressing in terms of her favorites.
Once we got home, I got this beautiful photo of the loves of my life. I am so lucky to have them both. They fill my heart to overflowing.
And I think they like each other, too.
May 15, 2013
I got this shot of a happy girl and her Eb. The weather has been beautiful the last few days, and much time has been spent outdoors together.
I got this shot of a happy girl and her Eb. The weather has been beautiful the last few days, and much time has been spent outdoors together.
We went to dinner with Eb and Gee Gee to Ruby Tuesdays, and Lizzy loves to choose items from the salad bar. She decided she loves croutons all of a sudden, and we had to go up 3 times to get her more!
Afterwards, we went to the coin store to get some more coins for her quickly growing collection (pretty impressive for a 2 year old!) and then went to the party store to get some new toys. What a fun day!
May 17, 2013
Lizzy was being so funny tonight. We got our Chinese take out menu out and were looking at it. She turned it over to the side with the pictures, and was saying (rather dramatically and quite hilariously) “I pick (piiiiieeeeck) THIS one!” and then say “no” and change her mind. She had us both in stitches.
After dinner (she ate all my shrimp – AGAIN!), we watched Dumbo and she cried when it was over. I had to rewind it 4 times before she was satisfied.
May 18, 2013
Saturday morning Lizzy and I got up and went to get doughnuts (more “I piiiieeeeck THIS ONE!) We then went to Noblesville to walk in a CF walk with/for my friend Holly. It rained for the first 30 minutes, but then cleared up and Lizzy and I had a wonderful walk. She provided constant narration of everything she saw, from grass and trees and dogs, to a bridge and river and a squirrel. What fun!
Afterwards, we went to the coin store to get some more coins for her quickly growing collection (pretty impressive for a 2 year old!) and then went to the party store to get some new toys. What a fun day!
May 17, 2013
Lizzy was being so funny tonight. We got our Chinese take out menu out and were looking at it. She turned it over to the side with the pictures, and was saying (rather dramatically and quite hilariously) “I pick (piiiiieeeeck) THIS one!” and then say “no” and change her mind. She had us both in stitches.
After dinner (she ate all my shrimp – AGAIN!), we watched Dumbo and she cried when it was over. I had to rewind it 4 times before she was satisfied.
May 18, 2013
Saturday morning Lizzy and I got up and went to get doughnuts (more “I piiiieeeeck THIS ONE!) We then went to Noblesville to walk in a CF walk with/for my friend Holly. It rained for the first 30 minutes, but then cleared up and Lizzy and I had a wonderful walk. She provided constant narration of everything she saw, from grass and trees and dogs, to a bridge and river and a squirrel. What fun!
May 20, 2013
On the recommendation of some friends, I’ve decided to check out a one-day a week “preschool” program at a local church very near to our house. It feels sort of meant to be, as they have openings only in the Friday only class (how perfect is that?!), and they specifically needs girls of Lizzy’s exact age to balance the class out. A spot custom made for her? Sounds great!
May 21, 2013
I went to pick Lizzy at the church where I meet Eb and Gee Gee at the end of each day, and she was playing outside at the playground. There were many other children out playing as well. There were several children (older, probably 3 – 5) surrounding her as she sat in a bouncy playground toy. She sat there with her hands out for them to touch, and they were just fascinated by her. It looked like she was royalty, holding court with her subjects. The children were drawn to her for some reason, out of all the other kids on the playground. Must be because she’s so beautiful.
May 23, 2013
We had a good visit at Lizzy’s preschool. She and her Dad played in what will be her classroom while I had a look around. She said she did like “school”, especially the trucks and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse play set. I hope she remembers that in a few months!
May 24, 2013
I love when she sleeps with both hands under her face, like a sleeping angel.
On the recommendation of some friends, I’ve decided to check out a one-day a week “preschool” program at a local church very near to our house. It feels sort of meant to be, as they have openings only in the Friday only class (how perfect is that?!), and they specifically needs girls of Lizzy’s exact age to balance the class out. A spot custom made for her? Sounds great!
May 21, 2013
I went to pick Lizzy at the church where I meet Eb and Gee Gee at the end of each day, and she was playing outside at the playground. There were many other children out playing as well. There were several children (older, probably 3 – 5) surrounding her as she sat in a bouncy playground toy. She sat there with her hands out for them to touch, and they were just fascinated by her. It looked like she was royalty, holding court with her subjects. The children were drawn to her for some reason, out of all the other kids on the playground. Must be because she’s so beautiful.
May 23, 2013
We had a good visit at Lizzy’s preschool. She and her Dad played in what will be her classroom while I had a look around. She said she did like “school”, especially the trucks and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse play set. I hope she remembers that in a few months!
May 24, 2013
I love when she sleeps with both hands under her face, like a sleeping angel.
What a tremendous day! We went Dada while he got his hair cut, and then went to the zoo. She LOVED it!
Feeding giraffes
Dumbo!
Lookie! Baby Dumbo!
She fed the giraffes, she yelled “Dumbo!” to the elephants, and she loved the sea lions barking, and mimicked that for the rest of the day. The only part she didn't like was the dolphin show, and the dolphin enclosure for some reason. Otherwise, the zoo was a big hit. Exhausted, she fell asleep on the way home.
Feeding giraffes
Dumbo!
Lookie! Baby Dumbo!
She fed the giraffes, she yelled “Dumbo!” to the elephants, and she loved the sea lions barking, and mimicked that for the rest of the day. The only part she didn't like was the dolphin show, and the dolphin enclosure for some reason. Otherwise, the zoo was a big hit. Exhausted, she fell asleep on the way home.
Once she woke, we headed to the carnival at Hamilton Town Center. We rode a boat together, and then she rode the antique cars BY HERSELF! Twice!
Riding the pink car
Duck picking with Daddy
This car is yellow!
She loves to drive!
Truck drivin' girl
Then we rode the trucks once together, and then she rode alone. I was so proud of her, not crying or showing the slightest concern when the carnival worker checked her seat belt. We did a duck game (she got a big princess hammer) and enjoyed some shaved ice. What fun!
Riding the pink car
Duck picking with Daddy
This car is yellow!
She loves to drive!
Truck drivin' girl
Then we rode the trucks once together, and then she rode alone. I was so proud of her, not crying or showing the slightest concern when the carnival worker checked her seat belt. We did a duck game (she got a big princess hammer) and enjoyed some shaved ice. What fun!
May 25, 2013
Saturday we were supposed to go to the Saxony Ice Cream social, but she took a 3 hour nap right through it! So, once awake, we went and had dinner at Puccini’s (she continues to love croutons, and was so distressed when they “took our dip!”)
After dinner, we went over to a party and to visit with our friend Dan who is home for the weekend. There was a live band, and she said she wanted a turn on the drums (silly girl!) We sat on the step and listened to the music for several songs, with her tapping her toe, dancing, and happily eating a cookie. Once others came to sit with us, however, it was game over, and she wouldn’t listen to the band or dance any more. Oh well, we had a great time while it lasted!
Saturday we were supposed to go to the Saxony Ice Cream social, but she took a 3 hour nap right through it! So, once awake, we went and had dinner at Puccini’s (she continues to love croutons, and was so distressed when they “took our dip!”)
After dinner, we went over to a party and to visit with our friend Dan who is home for the weekend. There was a live band, and she said she wanted a turn on the drums (silly girl!) We sat on the step and listened to the music for several songs, with her tapping her toe, dancing, and happily eating a cookie. Once others came to sit with us, however, it was game over, and she wouldn’t listen to the band or dance any more. Oh well, we had a great time while it lasted!
May 27, 2013
Lizzy were being so funny, telling me my name is Jennifer, Dada is Tommy, and she is Elizabeth.
May 29, 2013
Lizzy said the cutest thing before bed. She asked me if I was going to work in the morning. I said yes. I asked her if she knows what Dada does at work. “Up, up in a plane, bye bye.” What about Ed? “Drive big truck and Bobcat, bye bye.” What about Mama? “On a slide with babies.”
May 30, 2013
Lizzy is going through a naked baby phase, so today was the second time this week I arrived home to, yet again, a naked baby playing outside. This naked phase is getting serious!
June 1, 2013
After dinner out, we went to Wal Mart to do some shopping. When we got out of the car, she said “Hi shopping. I’ve missed you.”
June 2, 2013
Lizzy LOVES to wear hats. Truly, accessories of any kind, but especially hats.
It was very windy this afternoon. She said "Hold on tight! My hat blow away!"
Lizzy were being so funny, telling me my name is Jennifer, Dada is Tommy, and she is Elizabeth.
May 29, 2013
Lizzy said the cutest thing before bed. She asked me if I was going to work in the morning. I said yes. I asked her if she knows what Dada does at work. “Up, up in a plane, bye bye.” What about Ed? “Drive big truck and Bobcat, bye bye.” What about Mama? “On a slide with babies.”
May 30, 2013
Lizzy is going through a naked baby phase, so today was the second time this week I arrived home to, yet again, a naked baby playing outside. This naked phase is getting serious!
June 1, 2013
After dinner out, we went to Wal Mart to do some shopping. When we got out of the car, she said “Hi shopping. I’ve missed you.”
June 2, 2013
Lizzy LOVES to wear hats. Truly, accessories of any kind, but especially hats.
It was very windy this afternoon. She said "Hold on tight! My hat blow away!"
June 4, 2013
Daddy had a speaking engagement downtown, so it was just Lizzy and I for the evening. What to do, what to do? I know, let's head to the beach! We played there for a little over an hour, and she had such fun making sandcastles and footprints.
Daddy had a speaking engagement downtown, so it was just Lizzy and I for the evening. What to do, what to do? I know, let's head to the beach! We played there for a little over an hour, and she had such fun making sandcastles and footprints.
June 5, 2013
We were sitting at the table eating dinner, and Lizzy started singing Row, Row, Row Your Boat, out of nowhere.
She just kept singing it and singing it. I was able to surreptitiously grab my phone and catch a blurry, off-center video. If she knows you’re recording her, she’ll stop doing what she’s doing, so it was my only choice.
Row, Row, Row Your BOAT!
I adore her.
June 8, 2013
Daddy had to leave today for a week in Las Vegas, so Lizzy and I headed to Eb and Gee Gee’s in the early afternoon. She fell asleep on the way there, but woke up and upon seeing their newly shaved dog, Gus, proceeded to say he looked “funny” and call him “naked Gus.”
In the late afternoon, we went to the June Jamboree. Eb had bought 32 tickets the week prior, and we lucked into arriving during the 4 hour window when rides were only 1 ticket each. We rode a LOT of rides, including the carousel 4 times (the song was Small World, and she were singing along), the “wiggle worm” twice, and the helicopter twice. She said the big slide was “scary” and didn’t want to do that again. We had an ice cream cone, corn on the cob, she picked ducks, played a fishing game, and had an overall tremendous time. Eb and Gee won her a giant stuffed elephant, and when we handed it to her, she said “happy.”
Preparing to ride
Fun for a toddler, I suppose
We were sitting at the table eating dinner, and Lizzy started singing Row, Row, Row Your Boat, out of nowhere.
She just kept singing it and singing it. I was able to surreptitiously grab my phone and catch a blurry, off-center video. If she knows you’re recording her, she’ll stop doing what she’s doing, so it was my only choice.
Row, Row, Row Your BOAT!
I adore her.
June 8, 2013
Daddy had to leave today for a week in Las Vegas, so Lizzy and I headed to Eb and Gee Gee’s in the early afternoon. She fell asleep on the way there, but woke up and upon seeing their newly shaved dog, Gus, proceeded to say he looked “funny” and call him “naked Gus.”
In the late afternoon, we went to the June Jamboree. Eb had bought 32 tickets the week prior, and we lucked into arriving during the 4 hour window when rides were only 1 ticket each. We rode a LOT of rides, including the carousel 4 times (the song was Small World, and she were singing along), the “wiggle worm” twice, and the helicopter twice. She said the big slide was “scary” and didn’t want to do that again. We had an ice cream cone, corn on the cob, she picked ducks, played a fishing game, and had an overall tremendous time. Eb and Gee won her a giant stuffed elephant, and when we handed it to her, she said “happy.”
Preparing to ride
Fun for a toddler, I suppose
She looks so much like me in this photo:
Once Dumbo was acquired, he too had to ride all rides with us.
June 9, 2013
Sunday we got up early and had a beautiful breakfast at IHOP. Then we dropped Gee off and she and I and Eb went to the Markleville park. She performed on stage for us, singing Small World and going “backstage.”
On the way home, she was playing with my phone and taking “selfies.”
Sunday we got up early and had a beautiful breakfast at IHOP. Then we dropped Gee off and she and I and Eb went to the Markleville park. She performed on stage for us, singing Small World and going “backstage.”
On the way home, she was playing with my phone and taking “selfies.”
After nearly an hour of play, we headed home for a nice 2.5 hour nap. While she was asleep, I got this photo of her sweet little baby hand, which is still perfectly chubby.
Once she woke, we went to the coin store and then to Meijer to get her some bubble wrap (“bubble pop”). I got her 25 feel worth, and she loved it!
BUBBLE POP!
As we were going to sleep, I asked her what her favorite things to eat were. She said “croutons and dip.” She also told me that she wants to dress like Minnie Mouse for Halloween.
June 11, 2013
All day today, she was to be called Jaq, Ed was Gus Gus, and I was Cinderella.
As we were laying in bed to go to sleep, she asked me to talk again about Halloween. She reiterated that she wants to be Minnie Mouse, but said I have to be Mickey and Daddy will be Goofy.
Then we talked about Christmas. I said “when you meet Santa, you will need to tell him what kind of present you want.” She said “Hmmmm”, put her finger on her chin, tapped it repeatedly, and said “Think. Think. Think.” Oh, how remarkably sweet! She eventually settled on asking Santa for an “animal game”, whatever that is.
June 12, 2013
Jaq had a big day today, getting a new stuffed lion (that she named Sparky) and 3 new puzzles, going to IMI to see the animals, a 3 hour nap, and lots of outside play.
June 13, 2013
Now she is Timothy, the mouse from Dumbo. Gus is Pluto, and Bella is Figaro. Oh, what an imagination she has.
June 14, 2013
Today, Daddy came home from Las Vegas while she was still napping on the couch. As she was waking, he was sitting there next to her. Once her eyes opened and she managed to focus on him, she pointed at him and said “Airplane.”
June 15, 2013
Lizzy (Timothy? Jaq? Depends on the day) and I got up and we went to get doughnuts, and then walked to the Farmer’s Market to get some fresh tomatoes. Once we got home, she picked at, but wasn’t really eating, her doughnut. She said “No doughnut, Mommy. Tomato please.”
BUBBLE POP!
As we were going to sleep, I asked her what her favorite things to eat were. She said “croutons and dip.” She also told me that she wants to dress like Minnie Mouse for Halloween.
June 11, 2013
All day today, she was to be called Jaq, Ed was Gus Gus, and I was Cinderella.
As we were laying in bed to go to sleep, she asked me to talk again about Halloween. She reiterated that she wants to be Minnie Mouse, but said I have to be Mickey and Daddy will be Goofy.
Then we talked about Christmas. I said “when you meet Santa, you will need to tell him what kind of present you want.” She said “Hmmmm”, put her finger on her chin, tapped it repeatedly, and said “Think. Think. Think.” Oh, how remarkably sweet! She eventually settled on asking Santa for an “animal game”, whatever that is.
June 12, 2013
Jaq had a big day today, getting a new stuffed lion (that she named Sparky) and 3 new puzzles, going to IMI to see the animals, a 3 hour nap, and lots of outside play.
June 13, 2013
Now she is Timothy, the mouse from Dumbo. Gus is Pluto, and Bella is Figaro. Oh, what an imagination she has.
June 14, 2013
Today, Daddy came home from Las Vegas while she was still napping on the couch. As she was waking, he was sitting there next to her. Once her eyes opened and she managed to focus on him, she pointed at him and said “Airplane.”
June 15, 2013
Lizzy (Timothy? Jaq? Depends on the day) and I got up and we went to get doughnuts, and then walked to the Farmer’s Market to get some fresh tomatoes. Once we got home, she picked at, but wasn’t really eating, her doughnut. She said “No doughnut, Mommy. Tomato please.”
Soon after breakfast, it was time for dance class. Once I got her dressed, we had a few minutes to kill. I love this photo. All dressed for dance class, but playing with her dump truck.
We arrived at the dance studio. At first, she was hesitant and clung to me. After about 5 minutes, though, she was fine. We danced, sang, and her favorite part was a “chase” song. She even held hands with another mom for Ring Around the Rosy, and then gave a high five to another little girl and the dance teacher. This is a huge step forward for her! She even said “Bye dance class” as we were leaving.
June 16, 2013
Today was Father’s Day, and what a fun day it was! In the late morning, we headed over to the NW side of Indy to look for new floors. While we were shopping, she was being so good, talking to the people there, telling (and showing) them that she is “two”, that she had met Mickey and Minnie and Goofy and Pluto, and telling them about Big Red that came to her house on her “happy day”. I’m so proud of her not being so shy around people! She’s growing by leaps and bounds here every day.
Afterwards, we were going to go to the Cheesecake Factory, then head home for naps and the pool. However, Daddy realized we weren’t too far from the good Vietnamese places on the West side, so we headed over that way. After lunch, I realized we were really close to IMS, and I’d been wanting to take her to the museum. It didn’t take much arm twisting to convince Daddy to go. So, we arrived at IMS, and she were so excited to see race cars going around the track. Oh, guess what, Daddy wanted to ride the race cars too!
June 16, 2013
Today was Father’s Day, and what a fun day it was! In the late morning, we headed over to the NW side of Indy to look for new floors. While we were shopping, she was being so good, talking to the people there, telling (and showing) them that she is “two”, that she had met Mickey and Minnie and Goofy and Pluto, and telling them about Big Red that came to her house on her “happy day”. I’m so proud of her not being so shy around people! She’s growing by leaps and bounds here every day.
Afterwards, we were going to go to the Cheesecake Factory, then head home for naps and the pool. However, Daddy realized we weren’t too far from the good Vietnamese places on the West side, so we headed over that way. After lunch, I realized we were really close to IMS, and I’d been wanting to take her to the museum. It didn’t take much arm twisting to convince Daddy to go. So, we arrived at IMS, and she were so excited to see race cars going around the track. Oh, guess what, Daddy wanted to ride the race cars too!
Next thing I know, we’re in a shuttle van heading over to the pit wall of IMS, for Daddy to do a ride-along. Lizzy said she wanted to ride too. Daddy said “No Lizzy, you’re too little. Maybe when you’re bigger.” She waited a few seconds, thought about it, and said “I’m bigger now.”
As Daddy was getting ready to go in the car, we got her some ear plugs that she actually wore and said they helped.
Daddy did his laps of the track, and then we headed back over to the museum. She really liked seeing all the race cars, and we got to sit in one and take our picture.
Excuse the glare on the photo below. It's a picture of the photo I bought there.
As we were heading home, she (of course) fell asleep. Once home, I laid her down on the couch, and she mumbled “race car.” I guess I know what she was dreaming about!
After a 2.5 hour nap, we played, had dinner, and then she took a bubble bath with glow sticks. What fun!
After a 2.5 hour nap, we played, had dinner, and then she took a bubble bath with glow sticks. What fun!
Afterwards we watched the Prince and the Pauper on Netflix, a few other really old Mickey cartoons, and went to sleep. What a perfect weekend.
June 17, 2013
Our dear friend John was visiting from Costa Rica, and this was his last night in town. So, he came over for a visit, and she said “hi John” and shook his hand. She was so good with him, not shy in the slightest! He was stunned with the big difference – when he stayed with us back in December, she basically ignored his presence the entire time he was with us, so this is a huge turnaround.
We went to E Miracle for dinner, and she not only ate nearly 2 eggs for dinner, but she talked to the waiter, gave him a high five, and was completely out of her shell. We have seen such a TREMENDOUS difference in her demeanor with interacting with others this past month. It’s like a switch has been flipped. We couldn’t be happier.
When we were leaving, she gave John a kiss and actually held his hand on the way out of the restaurant, along with Daddy’s. So sweet!
June 19, 2013
We were sitting at the table, eating a meal. She was sitting in my lap, as we were sharing a plate together. She leaned back into me, and said “You’re my friend. I love you.” I completely melted. This precious angel knows only love.
The last few weeks, Lizzy has become very interested in puzzles - VERY interested. Puzzling with her is a very intense experience. Fortunately, she has a kindred puzzle spirit in her Mama! When she finishes a puzzle, she exclaims “Yay! My puzzle is done!” However, upon completion she only relishes in her triumph for a few seconds before scrambling the pieces, and then saying “Oh no! My puzzle is broken!” However, she does fully understand the distress of a missing piece. She’ll say “My puzzle is missing a piece!”
She does like to inject some silliness into the puzzling experience though. She knows exactly where certain pieces go. However, she’ll pretend to put them in the wrong piece and say “Nooooooooo” and then put it in the wrong place again and again, saying “nooooooo” each time. Then she feigns surprise when she gets it in the correct place. She’s so funny. She really does have a great sense of humor, especially regarding anything absurd. She’ll say something like “I will eat a stinky shoe – pee yew!” and then start giggling. She keeps our house so full of laughter.
June 21, 2013
This morning I got a call from Eb that she was taking bird magnets from the washing machine and putting them way up high on the fridge, yelling “TA DA!” after each successful attempt.
Eb and Gee took Lizzy to ride a train today. She LOVED it, but the gentle swaying motion of the train put her to sleep about 20 minutes into the journey, and she slept until they were putting her back in her car seat to head home. Whoops!
June 17, 2013
Our dear friend John was visiting from Costa Rica, and this was his last night in town. So, he came over for a visit, and she said “hi John” and shook his hand. She was so good with him, not shy in the slightest! He was stunned with the big difference – when he stayed with us back in December, she basically ignored his presence the entire time he was with us, so this is a huge turnaround.
We went to E Miracle for dinner, and she not only ate nearly 2 eggs for dinner, but she talked to the waiter, gave him a high five, and was completely out of her shell. We have seen such a TREMENDOUS difference in her demeanor with interacting with others this past month. It’s like a switch has been flipped. We couldn’t be happier.
When we were leaving, she gave John a kiss and actually held his hand on the way out of the restaurant, along with Daddy’s. So sweet!
June 19, 2013
We were sitting at the table, eating a meal. She was sitting in my lap, as we were sharing a plate together. She leaned back into me, and said “You’re my friend. I love you.” I completely melted. This precious angel knows only love.
The last few weeks, Lizzy has become very interested in puzzles - VERY interested. Puzzling with her is a very intense experience. Fortunately, she has a kindred puzzle spirit in her Mama! When she finishes a puzzle, she exclaims “Yay! My puzzle is done!” However, upon completion she only relishes in her triumph for a few seconds before scrambling the pieces, and then saying “Oh no! My puzzle is broken!” However, she does fully understand the distress of a missing piece. She’ll say “My puzzle is missing a piece!”
She does like to inject some silliness into the puzzling experience though. She knows exactly where certain pieces go. However, she’ll pretend to put them in the wrong piece and say “Nooooooooo” and then put it in the wrong place again and again, saying “nooooooo” each time. Then she feigns surprise when she gets it in the correct place. She’s so funny. She really does have a great sense of humor, especially regarding anything absurd. She’ll say something like “I will eat a stinky shoe – pee yew!” and then start giggling. She keeps our house so full of laughter.
June 21, 2013
This morning I got a call from Eb that she was taking bird magnets from the washing machine and putting them way up high on the fridge, yelling “TA DA!” after each successful attempt.
Eb and Gee took Lizzy to ride a train today. She LOVED it, but the gentle swaying motion of the train put her to sleep about 20 minutes into the journey, and she slept until they were putting her back in her car seat to head home. Whoops!
Look at this sweet face. How did I create such a photogenic beauty?
June 22, 2013
We got up and went to dance class. She did so great. Zero clinginess, and once class go started, she was ready to dance! She liked (briefly) wearing fairy wings, but she had me take them off of her after a few minutes. She kept saying “I can fly!” She colored a picture of Tinkerbell, of which she was so proud and couldn't wait to get home to show Daddy.
After dance class, we headed home for a quick change of clothes and then headed to the Pendleton Park for Michelle’s baby shower. She did SO GREAT with everyone, especially Granny (my grandmother), who sometimes Lizzy is a little wary of for some reason. She talked to everyone, played with Eb and Gee, fed ducks, and was all smiles for Daddy’s camera. What a great time.
[Park photos to follow!]
We got up and went to dance class. She did so great. Zero clinginess, and once class go started, she was ready to dance! She liked (briefly) wearing fairy wings, but she had me take them off of her after a few minutes. She kept saying “I can fly!” She colored a picture of Tinkerbell, of which she was so proud and couldn't wait to get home to show Daddy.
After dance class, we headed home for a quick change of clothes and then headed to the Pendleton Park for Michelle’s baby shower. She did SO GREAT with everyone, especially Granny (my grandmother), who sometimes Lizzy is a little wary of for some reason. She talked to everyone, played with Eb and Gee, fed ducks, and was all smiles for Daddy’s camera. What a great time.
[Park photos to follow!]
We were going to take her to “Touch a Truck” at Hamilton Town Center (the girl loves big trucks), but she fell asleep on the ride home. We also had wanted to go to the pool, but she napped from 1:30 – 4:30, and when she woke up, we had one heck of a great storm going on.
We were trying to decide what to do for dinner, when we looked across the street around 6:30 and noticed they were just setting up for the neighborhood picnic. Perfect! We hurriedly made some pretzels to take, and off we went. She was so good – talking (even singing!) to our neighbors, whereas a few weeks before she cried one neighbor tried to say hi to her. She ate chicken and cake, and “played” cornhole (as well as a 2-year old can, I suppose). Then I managed to talk her into the bouncy castle and she made new friends! She played Ring Around the Rosy with them, popped bubbles, and even played water balloons. It was amazing. I was even able to go sit down with the adults and just keep an eye on her as she played. She didn’t even care that I wasn’t right there by her side. A month ago, I would have said we’d never get to this point. Now, here we are.
I have full confidence in my heart that she will be just fine starting school in September. She will love making new friends and all will be well. I know she needs the intellectual stimulation school will provide, my main concern was her not being able to be away from me or interact with the other children or teachers. She will be just fine.
June 23, 2013
Lizzy and Daddy slept until 9:30 in the morning. Once I got them both to wake up, we headed to Perkins for breakfast. She ate potatoes, eggs, and bacon and was such a good girl (as usual). We headed to the pool right around noon, and played and swam until almost 2:00. We went home and she napped from 2:30 – 5:30, which surprised me since she had slept so late in the morning.
Once she woke, I was looking at the pictures on Daddy’s camera from the park the day before. She said “I like when Daddy takes my picture.” Oh my gosh, what a sentence from a 2 year old! Daddy took some more pictures of her, and she was making such tremendous cheese faces. She loves the camera!
[Silly, impromptu pictures to come]
We were trying to decide what to do for dinner, when we looked across the street around 6:30 and noticed they were just setting up for the neighborhood picnic. Perfect! We hurriedly made some pretzels to take, and off we went. She was so good – talking (even singing!) to our neighbors, whereas a few weeks before she cried one neighbor tried to say hi to her. She ate chicken and cake, and “played” cornhole (as well as a 2-year old can, I suppose). Then I managed to talk her into the bouncy castle and she made new friends! She played Ring Around the Rosy with them, popped bubbles, and even played water balloons. It was amazing. I was even able to go sit down with the adults and just keep an eye on her as she played. She didn’t even care that I wasn’t right there by her side. A month ago, I would have said we’d never get to this point. Now, here we are.
I have full confidence in my heart that she will be just fine starting school in September. She will love making new friends and all will be well. I know she needs the intellectual stimulation school will provide, my main concern was her not being able to be away from me or interact with the other children or teachers. She will be just fine.
June 23, 2013
Lizzy and Daddy slept until 9:30 in the morning. Once I got them both to wake up, we headed to Perkins for breakfast. She ate potatoes, eggs, and bacon and was such a good girl (as usual). We headed to the pool right around noon, and played and swam until almost 2:00. We went home and she napped from 2:30 – 5:30, which surprised me since she had slept so late in the morning.
Once she woke, I was looking at the pictures on Daddy’s camera from the park the day before. She said “I like when Daddy takes my picture.” Oh my gosh, what a sentence from a 2 year old! Daddy took some more pictures of her, and she was making such tremendous cheese faces. She loves the camera!
[Silly, impromptu pictures to come]
After dinner, we read some books for probably an hour or more (reading is becoming a very serious, intense activity for her). Her favorite books right now are “Good Night, I Love You” (which she asks for by name – “Good Night, I Lub You”), Where is Baby’s Birthday Cake (once we find the cake, we have to sing Happy Birthday and blow out the candles) and I’ll Teach My Dog a Lot of Words by Dr. Seuss. She’s starting to memorize the words on a lot of the pages, which is a good pre-reading skill. She’ll be reading on her own before we know it!
June 24, 2013
We got home and Daddy set up his golf net. She was being so funny. She made us all get in the “net house”. Then Daddy went around the other side and she was pretending he was “stuck.” She was getting so excitable about Daddy being stuck that her words were getting all jumbled around in the excitement.
Daddy's stuck!
Then she decided she was going to move all of her stuff into the “net house”. We moved it over by the wall for her to play in, and she kept saying “I’m making my house.”
Later, as we were preparing dinner, she was playing pretend with an imaginary Martian Mickey, telling him to come down from Mars. It is so much fun watching her use that amazing imagination.
After dinner, we went upstairs for more play. She read a little with Daddy, and then we all played a tremendous game of hide and seek. She’d say “Where is Mommy? It’s a mystery!” She’d close the door to go count (which she does very loudly!) and tell me “good luck!” as she closed the door. Playing with her is so much fun! Every second with her is a gift.
June 25, 2013
As we were getting dressed this morning, Lizzy told me she wants to play hide and seek again tonight. No problem!
This morning at Gee’s house she brought out her toy guitar and announced she is a troubadour. How does she know what a troubadour is?!
A few other things that she’s been doing that I have neglected to mention. Her speech is so melodic. It’s like every sentence is a beautiful little song. I love listening to her talk. She’s so good at it too, and our conversations are such fun. Insightful, too. She notices many things that we adults don’t pay attention to.
She’s been taking a cardboard box, filling it up with random things the she’ll find in whatever room she’s in, and she’ll bring the box to either me or Daddy and say “Special Delivery!”
Lizzy LOVES to play pretend. She has great fun pretending to be chased by Tick Tock the Crocodile, or to pretend to be in a marching band in a parade.
She loves to sing – Row Row Row Your Boat, Ring Around the Rosy, Happy Birthday, and It’s a Small World are her favorite things to sing along with.
She loves to count, and often will tell me “I like numbers.” I’ll catch her sitting down counting to 10 on her fingers quite often.
She says the funniest things. Last night, Daddy brought out his racing helmet and put it on. She made me put it on too. Then she announced “Daddy’s helmet is stinky!” It’s not at all, but in her mind it is.
June 29, 2013
Saturday morning we went to dance class and Daddy finally got to go too. Today's class theme was "Teddy Bear Ball" so she chose to bring her Minnie Mouse along to dance with.
After about 10 minutes, Eb, Gee Gee and Granny showed up too! Lizzy was so cute, waving and performing for them.
June 24, 2013
We got home and Daddy set up his golf net. She was being so funny. She made us all get in the “net house”. Then Daddy went around the other side and she was pretending he was “stuck.” She was getting so excitable about Daddy being stuck that her words were getting all jumbled around in the excitement.
Daddy's stuck!
Then she decided she was going to move all of her stuff into the “net house”. We moved it over by the wall for her to play in, and she kept saying “I’m making my house.”
Later, as we were preparing dinner, she was playing pretend with an imaginary Martian Mickey, telling him to come down from Mars. It is so much fun watching her use that amazing imagination.
After dinner, we went upstairs for more play. She read a little with Daddy, and then we all played a tremendous game of hide and seek. She’d say “Where is Mommy? It’s a mystery!” She’d close the door to go count (which she does very loudly!) and tell me “good luck!” as she closed the door. Playing with her is so much fun! Every second with her is a gift.
June 25, 2013
As we were getting dressed this morning, Lizzy told me she wants to play hide and seek again tonight. No problem!
This morning at Gee’s house she brought out her toy guitar and announced she is a troubadour. How does she know what a troubadour is?!
A few other things that she’s been doing that I have neglected to mention. Her speech is so melodic. It’s like every sentence is a beautiful little song. I love listening to her talk. She’s so good at it too, and our conversations are such fun. Insightful, too. She notices many things that we adults don’t pay attention to.
She’s been taking a cardboard box, filling it up with random things the she’ll find in whatever room she’s in, and she’ll bring the box to either me or Daddy and say “Special Delivery!”
Lizzy LOVES to play pretend. She has great fun pretending to be chased by Tick Tock the Crocodile, or to pretend to be in a marching band in a parade.
She loves to sing – Row Row Row Your Boat, Ring Around the Rosy, Happy Birthday, and It’s a Small World are her favorite things to sing along with.
She loves to count, and often will tell me “I like numbers.” I’ll catch her sitting down counting to 10 on her fingers quite often.
She says the funniest things. Last night, Daddy brought out his racing helmet and put it on. She made me put it on too. Then she announced “Daddy’s helmet is stinky!” It’s not at all, but in her mind it is.
June 29, 2013
Saturday morning we went to dance class and Daddy finally got to go too. Today's class theme was "Teddy Bear Ball" so she chose to bring her Minnie Mouse along to dance with.
After about 10 minutes, Eb, Gee Gee and Granny showed up too! Lizzy was so cute, waving and performing for them.
After class, we got her clothes changed and were heading to the Freedom Festival, but it started to rain. So, we changed plans and went to the Cheesecake Factory instead. We walked around the mall afterwards, and she thought she was at the airport. I can see how she'd make that mistake!
Afterwards, we headed home for a 2 ½ hour nap, and then went to a party at a restaurant for some friends. We were there nearly 2.5 hours, and she did so great. Playing with her friend Naveen, eating “American Flag Cake” and being generally so good. After that long, though, she ready to go. We headed home and spent a few more hours playing and reading.
Saturday night as we were lying in bed, I talked to her about Daddy’s upcoming birthday. I asked her what we should get him.
She said “a Happy Birthday Button.”
“What else?”
“Presents.”
“Good idea. What should be inside the presents?”
“Things.”
She's so helpful.
June 30, 2013
Sunday it was too cold for the pool, so we spent the morning playing. We had our naps, and then went to Marsh. Afterwards, we went home and made banana bread, and she helped smash (as she says, “Mash!”) the bananas and put in the dry ingredients. She really liked eating it too!
Eb called and told me that last week, she opened his coin cabinet, turned around as though to sit on one of the shelves, closed the door on herself as much as she could, and said “I’m a penny.” Silly girl!
Also, this weekend she started using “ummm” as a filler word. I love it.
Afterwards, we headed home for a 2 ½ hour nap, and then went to a party at a restaurant for some friends. We were there nearly 2.5 hours, and she did so great. Playing with her friend Naveen, eating “American Flag Cake” and being generally so good. After that long, though, she ready to go. We headed home and spent a few more hours playing and reading.
Saturday night as we were lying in bed, I talked to her about Daddy’s upcoming birthday. I asked her what we should get him.
She said “a Happy Birthday Button.”
“What else?”
“Presents.”
“Good idea. What should be inside the presents?”
“Things.”
She's so helpful.
June 30, 2013
Sunday it was too cold for the pool, so we spent the morning playing. We had our naps, and then went to Marsh. Afterwards, we went home and made banana bread, and she helped smash (as she says, “Mash!”) the bananas and put in the dry ingredients. She really liked eating it too!
Eb called and told me that last week, she opened his coin cabinet, turned around as though to sit on one of the shelves, closed the door on herself as much as she could, and said “I’m a penny.” Silly girl!
Also, this weekend she started using “ummm” as a filler word. I love it.
July 2, 2013
Elizabeth loves to march. Since Frosty the Snowman wears a hat and carries a broom when he marches, she must do so as well.
March!
Her new favorite phrase (which changes by the day) is “not yet.”
Lizzy, do you want to eat dinner? Not yet.
Do you want to go to the potty? Not yet.
Do you want to read this book with me? Not yet.
July 3, 2013
As the alarm on my phone went off this morning, Lizzy rolled over and said “What’s that noise?” Ha! Just like her Daddy.
After dinner, we headed to Saxony to meet up with the Lewises for fireworks.
Elizabeth loves to march. Since Frosty the Snowman wears a hat and carries a broom when he marches, she must do so as well.
March!
Her new favorite phrase (which changes by the day) is “not yet.”
Lizzy, do you want to eat dinner? Not yet.
Do you want to go to the potty? Not yet.
Do you want to read this book with me? Not yet.
July 3, 2013
As the alarm on my phone went off this morning, Lizzy rolled over and said “What’s that noise?” Ha! Just like her Daddy.
After dinner, we headed to Saxony to meet up with the Lewises for fireworks.
Once the fireworks started, she really enjoyed them, although I had to hold her ears at first.
Lizzy has started saying “no, not really” a lot if I ask her if she wants to do something that she doesn't want to do. It’s so cute!
“Lizzy, do you want to go downstairs and have some breakfast?” “No, not really.”
July 4, 2013
When she first wakes up, she’s instantly chatty. I was asking her to tell me about her favorite book, and this is what I got.
What's the name of your favorite book?
Lizzy has started saying “no, not really” a lot if I ask her if she wants to do something that she doesn't want to do. It’s so cute!
“Lizzy, do you want to go downstairs and have some breakfast?” “No, not really.”
July 4, 2013
When she first wakes up, she’s instantly chatty. I was asking her to tell me about her favorite book, and this is what I got.
What's the name of your favorite book?
We headed over to Eb and Gee’s in the morning, starting off our visit with some daytime fireworks. The best ones were colored smoke bombs and “pops.”
She then proceeded to take a FOUR HOUR NAP from 12:30 – 4:30!
Once she slept half the day away, we headed home to light fireworks of our own. At first, she was a little apprehensive and wanted to watch from the window. Once I coaxed her out, I told her I was proud of her for being so brave. She said “I’m not scared ever.”
July 5, 2013
While we were in bed in the morning, she saw my big picture of Abbey Road and said “the men are going to the beach.”
I had a haircut at 1:00 at Hamilton Town Center, so Daddy took her to the bank where she got a green sucker, and then Dick’s where she fell asleep on his shoulder. I was so surprised around 1:30 when he brought her in to the salon, snoozing away.
She then proceeded to take a FOUR HOUR NAP from 12:30 – 4:30!
Once she slept half the day away, we headed home to light fireworks of our own. At first, she was a little apprehensive and wanted to watch from the window. Once I coaxed her out, I told her I was proud of her for being so brave. She said “I’m not scared ever.”
July 5, 2013
While we were in bed in the morning, she saw my big picture of Abbey Road and said “the men are going to the beach.”
I had a haircut at 1:00 at Hamilton Town Center, so Daddy took her to the bank where she got a green sucker, and then Dick’s where she fell asleep on his shoulder. I was so surprised around 1:30 when he brought her in to the salon, snoozing away.
July 6, 2013
Saturday there was no dance class, so we stayed home the whole day. It was kind of rainy, so we spent the morning getting ready for the new floor installation while she played with every single toy we were attempting to relocate to the basement.
I asked her, again, what we should get Daddy for his birthday. She said “a happy birthday button, cupcakes, and a puzzle.” I’m pretty sure Daddy doesn’t want a puzzle, but it’s something she enjoys, so she thinks he’d like one too!
Speaking of presents, she’s still saying how she will ask Santa Claus for an “animal game.” So far, we have come up with Hungry Hungry Hippos and Barrel of Monkeys as animal games that Santa can bring. Any other ideas?
During her naptime, I moved all of her books that were downstairs up to her bookshelf in her bedroom, and lined them all up so the spines were facing outward. Once she discovered these, she went over and looked for the book from her birthday trip. She couldn't remember the word "Disney", so she grabbed it and said it is her "Dinsey" book. She transposed the N and S. Since she so rarely messes up words, I found this incredibly cute!
We set off fireworks again, since she asked us to do so.
Before bed, she went into a detailed story about how she is now big enough to drive a race car. She said she will put on a funny hat (a balaclava is her “funny hat”), helmet, and gloves, and drive a blue race car over two baby hills. So funny!
July 7, 2013
I tried to get her to recreate the race car story from the night before. I only had partial success.
What do you wear when you drive a race car?
We went to Home Depot to get some dumpster bags for the floor project. In the Home Depot parking lot, she spotted a white police car that had no lights or anything indicating it was a police car other than the word POLICE on the side. She exclaimed “police car!” How did she know? Is all that reading practice paying off?
Afterwards, we finally got to go to the pool! We were there from 1:45 - 2:45, at which point I knew it was naptime. We headed home and she was asleep within minutes of lying down.
Saturday there was no dance class, so we stayed home the whole day. It was kind of rainy, so we spent the morning getting ready for the new floor installation while she played with every single toy we were attempting to relocate to the basement.
I asked her, again, what we should get Daddy for his birthday. She said “a happy birthday button, cupcakes, and a puzzle.” I’m pretty sure Daddy doesn’t want a puzzle, but it’s something she enjoys, so she thinks he’d like one too!
Speaking of presents, she’s still saying how she will ask Santa Claus for an “animal game.” So far, we have come up with Hungry Hungry Hippos and Barrel of Monkeys as animal games that Santa can bring. Any other ideas?
During her naptime, I moved all of her books that were downstairs up to her bookshelf in her bedroom, and lined them all up so the spines were facing outward. Once she discovered these, she went over and looked for the book from her birthday trip. She couldn't remember the word "Disney", so she grabbed it and said it is her "Dinsey" book. She transposed the N and S. Since she so rarely messes up words, I found this incredibly cute!
We set off fireworks again, since she asked us to do so.
Before bed, she went into a detailed story about how she is now big enough to drive a race car. She said she will put on a funny hat (a balaclava is her “funny hat”), helmet, and gloves, and drive a blue race car over two baby hills. So funny!
July 7, 2013
I tried to get her to recreate the race car story from the night before. I only had partial success.
What do you wear when you drive a race car?
We went to Home Depot to get some dumpster bags for the floor project. In the Home Depot parking lot, she spotted a white police car that had no lights or anything indicating it was a police car other than the word POLICE on the side. She exclaimed “police car!” How did she know? Is all that reading practice paying off?
Afterwards, we finally got to go to the pool! We were there from 1:45 - 2:45, at which point I knew it was naptime. We headed home and she was asleep within minutes of lying down.
As we were lying in bed at bedtime, people started shooting off fireworks again. She asked if we could go see them, and I said no, those fireworks needed to be quiet. After each boom, she then said “go away fireworks.”
July 10, 2013
I love that we are at the point now where I can call her on the phone while she’s with Eb and Gee and ask her about her day, and she will tell me the details of what she’s done, or what they are planning on doing. When she ends by saying “I lub you Mommy,” it makes my day.
Eb said that today she was sitting down to "read" a book to him. She opened the first page and started out "Once upon a time..." The funny thing is, none of us have been reading books to her that start out with that phrase. Where she learned that, I have no idea.
She was sitting on a rug, looking at old coins with Eb. She grabbed his loupe, held it up to her eye to inspect a coin, and said "aye aye aye!"
We came home today after a few nights away, as we are having new hardwood floors put in on the main floor. We came home to find it about half done. She stopped in the doorway and exclaimed "My house is different!"
Once she got over the shock of the house being different, she decided we were going to get on the couch and pretend we were flying in an airplane. Over and over and over. :o)
We came upstairs to play some games on my laptop, since I didn't want to spend all evening in the construction mess. We found some Kindergarten-level online games, where the child has to make inferences about an animal given some clues. She got them all right.
We were lying in bed, playing around, nursing and giggling. She playfully did something that actually hurt me, so I said “Ouch! That really hurt!” She got the most pained expression on her face, and started wailing uncontrollably. She felt so bad for hurting Mommy. She has the softest, most tender heart, and only wants to be good and kind. It took me a good 3 or 4 minutes to convince her that I was okay, and that everything would be alright. Little sweetheart.
I don't mean this to be bad or negative, but sometimes when I get the "your baby this week" emails, they crack me up. It'll say something like "Soon, you might hear your baby string two or three words together in a sentence." You mean like she's been doing for a year? Or, "by the end of their second year, your baby might have as many as 100 words in her vocabulary." You mean how she says 100 different words within the first 10 minutes of being awake? Her vocabulary is easily in the thousands. "Your child will soon be able to count to 3."
She's at the point now where she is using correct verb tenses. "I had a toy" or "I will go see Eb and Gee Gee." "We went to the store" rather than "we goed to the store."
She also performs correct conjugations. "I am hungry." "You are all wet." "Daddy is funny." She just knows that "I is" or "You am" is not correct. In fact, sometimes she'll say them wrong and start laughing, knowing it is absurd, and therefore hilarious.
She also gets her contractions right, as well as possessive words.
We can literally carry on full conversations with her. It's such fun.
Lately she has been loving to sing songs. I'll start a song, and she'll finish each phrase, or sing along with me. We sing Twinkle Twinkle, ABC, It's a Small World, Winnie the Pooh and so many more. I love her little singing voice.
July 11, 2013
Eb and Gee caught her counting backwards from 10 today, by herself.
I took this video of her “nursing” in her sleep while she was napping. I love that she still makes these motions with her mouth, like she’s an infant.
Nursing motions
We went to try a new restaurant for dinner, since our house is in utter disrepair due to the floor installation. I’ve been trying for months to get her to try mustard, to no avail. Tonight, however, I coaxed her into trying a bite and she LOVED IT! Once she tried it she said “I’ve got mustard in my mouth!” She then proceeded to say it tasted sour. She obviously liked it, because from then on she basically took my tenderloin sandwich from me, dipping it into the mustard and trying big bites. I’m also guessing she liked the restaurant, because as she was eating she kept saying “we will come back tomorrow.”
Around bath time, Daddy left to go see his best friend who will soon be moving away. As he was leaving, she said “Bye bye, Daddy. Good luck!"
July 10, 2013
I love that we are at the point now where I can call her on the phone while she’s with Eb and Gee and ask her about her day, and she will tell me the details of what she’s done, or what they are planning on doing. When she ends by saying “I lub you Mommy,” it makes my day.
Eb said that today she was sitting down to "read" a book to him. She opened the first page and started out "Once upon a time..." The funny thing is, none of us have been reading books to her that start out with that phrase. Where she learned that, I have no idea.
She was sitting on a rug, looking at old coins with Eb. She grabbed his loupe, held it up to her eye to inspect a coin, and said "aye aye aye!"
We came home today after a few nights away, as we are having new hardwood floors put in on the main floor. We came home to find it about half done. She stopped in the doorway and exclaimed "My house is different!"
Once she got over the shock of the house being different, she decided we were going to get on the couch and pretend we were flying in an airplane. Over and over and over. :o)
We came upstairs to play some games on my laptop, since I didn't want to spend all evening in the construction mess. We found some Kindergarten-level online games, where the child has to make inferences about an animal given some clues. She got them all right.
We were lying in bed, playing around, nursing and giggling. She playfully did something that actually hurt me, so I said “Ouch! That really hurt!” She got the most pained expression on her face, and started wailing uncontrollably. She felt so bad for hurting Mommy. She has the softest, most tender heart, and only wants to be good and kind. It took me a good 3 or 4 minutes to convince her that I was okay, and that everything would be alright. Little sweetheart.
I don't mean this to be bad or negative, but sometimes when I get the "your baby this week" emails, they crack me up. It'll say something like "Soon, you might hear your baby string two or three words together in a sentence." You mean like she's been doing for a year? Or, "by the end of their second year, your baby might have as many as 100 words in her vocabulary." You mean how she says 100 different words within the first 10 minutes of being awake? Her vocabulary is easily in the thousands. "Your child will soon be able to count to 3."
She's at the point now where she is using correct verb tenses. "I had a toy" or "I will go see Eb and Gee Gee." "We went to the store" rather than "we goed to the store."
She also performs correct conjugations. "I am hungry." "You are all wet." "Daddy is funny." She just knows that "I is" or "You am" is not correct. In fact, sometimes she'll say them wrong and start laughing, knowing it is absurd, and therefore hilarious.
She also gets her contractions right, as well as possessive words.
We can literally carry on full conversations with her. It's such fun.
Lately she has been loving to sing songs. I'll start a song, and she'll finish each phrase, or sing along with me. We sing Twinkle Twinkle, ABC, It's a Small World, Winnie the Pooh and so many more. I love her little singing voice.
July 11, 2013
Eb and Gee caught her counting backwards from 10 today, by herself.
I took this video of her “nursing” in her sleep while she was napping. I love that she still makes these motions with her mouth, like she’s an infant.
Nursing motions
We went to try a new restaurant for dinner, since our house is in utter disrepair due to the floor installation. I’ve been trying for months to get her to try mustard, to no avail. Tonight, however, I coaxed her into trying a bite and she LOVED IT! Once she tried it she said “I’ve got mustard in my mouth!” She then proceeded to say it tasted sour. She obviously liked it, because from then on she basically took my tenderloin sandwich from me, dipping it into the mustard and trying big bites. I’m also guessing she liked the restaurant, because as she was eating she kept saying “we will come back tomorrow.”
Around bath time, Daddy left to go see his best friend who will soon be moving away. As he was leaving, she said “Bye bye, Daddy. Good luck!"
July 12, 2013
Ed called to tell me that Lizzy was counting to 19, accurately, over and over again. She doesn't say "20" though, she chooses to start over. Or, sometimes she'll say "17, 18, 19, a bunch!"
Sometimes it feels as though the sun shines brighter because she's in this world.
Ed called to tell me that Lizzy was counting to 19, accurately, over and over again. She doesn't say "20" though, she chooses to start over. Or, sometimes she'll say "17, 18, 19, a bunch!"
Sometimes it feels as though the sun shines brighter because she's in this world.
July 14, 2013
Today we went to the pool, since it was FINALLY hot enough to really enjoy it.
Today we went to the pool, since it was FINALLY hot enough to really enjoy it.
Afterwards, we had Subway and then a nap. We dropped her off with Eb and Gee while we went to dinner and Paul McCartney. Imagine my surprise when she was still awake at 12:15 am when we got home!
July 15, 2013
We both slept until about 9:30, then we went to get doughnuts. We then went upstairs where we watched Winnie the Pooh twice, then she had a FOUR HOUR nap.
July 15, 2013
We both slept until about 9:30, then we went to get doughnuts. We then went upstairs where we watched Winnie the Pooh twice, then she had a FOUR HOUR nap.
The plan was to go to the beach, but she slept the whole afternoon away. It was a pretty great day together, regardless. Just being with her make the day remarkable, no matter what we end up doing.
July 16, 2013
I got a phone call from her saying “I made dinner. I put tomato and bacon on.” She had helped Eb make a BLT, and she was so proud that she wanted to call and tell me.
July 17, 2013
Lizzy and I were in bed, preparing to go to sleep. She asked me when my birthday was. I told her in a couple of months. She then pretended to give me a birthday present. I asked her what was inside. She said "new shoes." (Good girl!) Then she gave me a pretend birthday cupcake with a candle.
When I pretended to blow out the imaginary candle, she said "No Mommy, [unintelligible - but starting with an "m"]"
I tried to figure out what she was saying, but couldn't quite get to it. I asked her to tell me more about the word so I could figure it out.
She said "[M word again] to light the candle!"
Oh - MATCHES!
I love that, in the rare instances we can't figure out what she's saying, she will provide us with additional context.
July 16, 2013
I got a phone call from her saying “I made dinner. I put tomato and bacon on.” She had helped Eb make a BLT, and she was so proud that she wanted to call and tell me.
July 17, 2013
Lizzy and I were in bed, preparing to go to sleep. She asked me when my birthday was. I told her in a couple of months. She then pretended to give me a birthday present. I asked her what was inside. She said "new shoes." (Good girl!) Then she gave me a pretend birthday cupcake with a candle.
When I pretended to blow out the imaginary candle, she said "No Mommy, [unintelligible - but starting with an "m"]"
I tried to figure out what she was saying, but couldn't quite get to it. I asked her to tell me more about the word so I could figure it out.
She said "[M word again] to light the candle!"
Oh - MATCHES!
I love that, in the rare instances we can't figure out what she's saying, she will provide us with additional context.
July 18, 2013
Recently, I purchased a fantastic “31” storage tote, for Lizzy to put her shoes in.
Recently, I purchased a fantastic “31” storage tote, for Lizzy to put her shoes in.
Like this idea? You can buy one here!
She wants to help put her shoes away, but the rack we keep our shoes on is hard for her to access. So, I got this to keep in the laundry room, next to our shoes, so it would be easier for her to put her own shoes away. When we come home and park in the garage, we then come in through the laundry room, so that was the logical place for it to live.
The day before, I brought it downstairs and put it in the laundry room. I said “Look, Lizzy. This box says “Lizzy’s Shoes” on it. That means when we come home, you take your shoes off and put them in this box.” Then we took all of her pairs of shoes and put them in the box, and I didn't say anything more about it.
Since we had her first soccer class tonight, we varied from our regular routine, and parked in the driveway, coming in through the front door rather than the laundry room. Imagine my total shock when she came in, sat down, took her shoes off, opened the laundry room door and put her shoes away. I didn't even mention it. She did this all on her own, remembering that the shoe box was in there from the very brief interaction with it the day before. What a good helper!
Speaking of soccer class…
She wants to help put her shoes away, but the rack we keep our shoes on is hard for her to access. So, I got this to keep in the laundry room, next to our shoes, so it would be easier for her to put her own shoes away. When we come home and park in the garage, we then come in through the laundry room, so that was the logical place for it to live.
The day before, I brought it downstairs and put it in the laundry room. I said “Look, Lizzy. This box says “Lizzy’s Shoes” on it. That means when we come home, you take your shoes off and put them in this box.” Then we took all of her pairs of shoes and put them in the box, and I didn't say anything more about it.
Since we had her first soccer class tonight, we varied from our regular routine, and parked in the driveway, coming in through the front door rather than the laundry room. Imagine my total shock when she came in, sat down, took her shoes off, opened the laundry room door and put her shoes away. I didn't even mention it. She did this all on her own, remembering that the shoe box was in there from the very brief interaction with it the day before. What a good helper!
Speaking of soccer class…
Couldn’t you just eat her?
Soccer class was great! It was VERY hot, so we had water breaks every 5 minutes or so, and I kept wiping her head with a cool wipe. Here she is kicking her ball (the pink one) into the net. Her first goal!
Soccer class was great! It was VERY hot, so we had water breaks every 5 minutes or so, and I kept wiping her head with a cool wipe. Here she is kicking her ball (the pink one) into the net. Her first goal!
She had a tremendous time, though, learning to dribble, alternate feet on the ball, and play Simon Says with the coach. After about 30 minutes, she lost interest (the class lasted 40 minutes), so rather than force her to stay in the heat the last 10 minutes, we went ahead and left.
I always said I wouldn’t be one of those moms who has their kid enrolled in every class and sport imaginable, but this little girl loves to DO anything. She’s loving dance class on Saturday mornings (she talks about it all week long), and now I know she loves soccer. If she didn’t enjoy it, we wouldn’t force her to do it. But when she’s inviting Eb and Gee and Granny to come watch her at dance class, I know that’s something special to her. Considering how she was talking about soccer class the rest of the night (and the next morning), I know she enjoyed that too. I’m grateful we can do these fun things with her, and as long as she’s enjoying it, we will let her do whatever she wants to do.
July 20, 2013
Our beautiful girl got to be a butterfly today at dance class! Daddy, Eb, Gee Gee and Granny all came to watch her, so she was in show-off mode.
I always said I wouldn’t be one of those moms who has their kid enrolled in every class and sport imaginable, but this little girl loves to DO anything. She’s loving dance class on Saturday mornings (she talks about it all week long), and now I know she loves soccer. If she didn’t enjoy it, we wouldn’t force her to do it. But when she’s inviting Eb and Gee and Granny to come watch her at dance class, I know that’s something special to her. Considering how she was talking about soccer class the rest of the night (and the next morning), I know she enjoyed that too. I’m grateful we can do these fun things with her, and as long as she’s enjoying it, we will let her do whatever she wants to do.
July 20, 2013
Our beautiful girl got to be a butterfly today at dance class! Daddy, Eb, Gee Gee and Granny all came to watch her, so she was in show-off mode.
Then they brought out the ribbons. The teacher calls each girl’s name, and they go to the middle to do a solo dance. Look at the grace in her step as she’s taking her turn performing! All eyes were definitely on her.
Today was the first time I have put her hair in pigtails. This face makes me melt.
July 21, 2013
Lizzy apparently needed to go potty, and headed into the bathroom to do so by herself. She took her underpants off and sat down, without issue. However, she was wearing a dress, and neglected to pull the dress out of the way. When I followed her into the bathroom to see what she was doing, she was proudly sitting on the potty, peeing all over her dress. She didn’t even realize it. Whoops!
July 22, 2013
Lizzy loves tomatoes. Eb has 4 tomato plants just for her, and she eats several a day. He peels them and feeds them to her. As you can see, she loves them.
Lizzy apparently needed to go potty, and headed into the bathroom to do so by herself. She took her underpants off and sat down, without issue. However, she was wearing a dress, and neglected to pull the dress out of the way. When I followed her into the bathroom to see what she was doing, she was proudly sitting on the potty, peeing all over her dress. She didn’t even realize it. Whoops!
July 22, 2013
Lizzy loves tomatoes. Eb has 4 tomato plants just for her, and she eats several a day. He peels them and feeds them to her. As you can see, she loves them.
Last Saturday, we went to Costco, and she saw a Minnie Mouse backpack. We were going to get it for her for school, but it was just too big. I hadn’t thought any more about it since then.
We were lying in bed. I was nearly asleep, and I thought she had already dozed off. She suddenly sat up and said “Mommy, buy me a Minnie Mouse backpack that’s not too big.” That backpack must have been on her mind for the past 2 days. Don’t worry sweetheart, we will get you a Minnie Mouse backpack that fits.
July 24, 2013
We had a procedure done today on Lizzy's teeth, that required general anesthesia, and therefore, some inherent risk. Obviously, I was dreading this day. Part of me couldn't help but notice that we had lost our first baby 3 years ago, on July 24, 2010. To have a procedure for Lizzy, with even the smallest of risks, gave me concern. However, our lives with her have been so blessed, that I knew deep down everything would be fine. How could it be anything but?
We got up around regular time and headed downtown to Riley Hospital for a dental procedure. The procedure itself wasn’t a big deal – some caps on her teeth due to some minor dental issues. However, since she’s so little, this required full general anesthesia. She did so incredibly well. She happily went with the Child Life specialist to pick out toys and stickers, and when it was time to go back to surgery, she drove a little car all the way into the operating room. The Child Life specialist came back to us a few minutes later and said that she did great, only fussing a tiny bit when they put the mask over her to administer the gas, but she was out within a few seconds.
While she was under they did x-rays, and we were pleased to find out there weren’t any other dental issues other than the ones we were there to fix. They got her teeth all capped up, cleaned really well, and I was able to back right back with her as she was waking up. As soon as those big, beautiful brown eyes saw me, she climbed over the bed railings and into my arms. We went right back into our little waiting room where we nursed and cuddled. They had given her a good dose of ibuprofen so she wasn’t in any pain. Her mouth was, of course, numb, and she kept grabbing at her tongue. It was hard for her to nurse at first due to the numbness, but she got it after a few seconds.
I’m so grateful I can provide that special comfort to her. I know some people don’t approve of me still nursing my toddler, but I will continue to do so as long as she wants to. If this means she will be 5 years old and still nursing, then so be it. It’s for her well-being, comfort, and our continued closeness and depth of bonding.
As we were nursing, the nurse came in and removed the IV from her hand, and we were able to get dressed and head home. I sat in the back with her in case she had any nausea, but she was fine. She just said “I’m sleepy. Let’s go home.” So, we got home and I got her to eat some lunch, and then she had a nice long nap.
She woke up like nothing had even happened that morning. She wasn’t in any pain, and was happy and smiling. So, I took her to Target to pick out a Minnie Mouse backpack (that wasn’t too big!) We found the perfect one, that even has bows that can be swapped out. They didn’t, however, have a matching lunchbox, so we will need to find one before school starts in a few weeks.
After Target, I decided to take her to the library for the first time. She LOVES to have books read to her, so I let her pick out several books to take home. She chose a book about going potty, 2 Winnie the Pooh books, and a book about how to build a snowman. Good choices!
We went back home to collect Daddy, and went to have Mexican for dinner. This is the face of a happy girl. Look at this beautiful smile.
We were lying in bed. I was nearly asleep, and I thought she had already dozed off. She suddenly sat up and said “Mommy, buy me a Minnie Mouse backpack that’s not too big.” That backpack must have been on her mind for the past 2 days. Don’t worry sweetheart, we will get you a Minnie Mouse backpack that fits.
July 24, 2013
We had a procedure done today on Lizzy's teeth, that required general anesthesia, and therefore, some inherent risk. Obviously, I was dreading this day. Part of me couldn't help but notice that we had lost our first baby 3 years ago, on July 24, 2010. To have a procedure for Lizzy, with even the smallest of risks, gave me concern. However, our lives with her have been so blessed, that I knew deep down everything would be fine. How could it be anything but?
We got up around regular time and headed downtown to Riley Hospital for a dental procedure. The procedure itself wasn’t a big deal – some caps on her teeth due to some minor dental issues. However, since she’s so little, this required full general anesthesia. She did so incredibly well. She happily went with the Child Life specialist to pick out toys and stickers, and when it was time to go back to surgery, she drove a little car all the way into the operating room. The Child Life specialist came back to us a few minutes later and said that she did great, only fussing a tiny bit when they put the mask over her to administer the gas, but she was out within a few seconds.
While she was under they did x-rays, and we were pleased to find out there weren’t any other dental issues other than the ones we were there to fix. They got her teeth all capped up, cleaned really well, and I was able to back right back with her as she was waking up. As soon as those big, beautiful brown eyes saw me, she climbed over the bed railings and into my arms. We went right back into our little waiting room where we nursed and cuddled. They had given her a good dose of ibuprofen so she wasn’t in any pain. Her mouth was, of course, numb, and she kept grabbing at her tongue. It was hard for her to nurse at first due to the numbness, but she got it after a few seconds.
I’m so grateful I can provide that special comfort to her. I know some people don’t approve of me still nursing my toddler, but I will continue to do so as long as she wants to. If this means she will be 5 years old and still nursing, then so be it. It’s for her well-being, comfort, and our continued closeness and depth of bonding.
As we were nursing, the nurse came in and removed the IV from her hand, and we were able to get dressed and head home. I sat in the back with her in case she had any nausea, but she was fine. She just said “I’m sleepy. Let’s go home.” So, we got home and I got her to eat some lunch, and then she had a nice long nap.
She woke up like nothing had even happened that morning. She wasn’t in any pain, and was happy and smiling. So, I took her to Target to pick out a Minnie Mouse backpack (that wasn’t too big!) We found the perfect one, that even has bows that can be swapped out. They didn’t, however, have a matching lunchbox, so we will need to find one before school starts in a few weeks.
After Target, I decided to take her to the library for the first time. She LOVES to have books read to her, so I let her pick out several books to take home. She chose a book about going potty, 2 Winnie the Pooh books, and a book about how to build a snowman. Good choices!
We went back home to collect Daddy, and went to have Mexican for dinner. This is the face of a happy girl. Look at this beautiful smile.
July 25, 2013
Since they had advised us to keep an eye on her for at least 24 hours after the surgery, I stayed home today with Lizzy. Since she was feeling fine, I took this opportunity to take her to her first real movie at the theater. The movie theater by our house does $1 kids movies all summer. So, since she’s free, I thought the worst that happens is we’d be out $1. We saw Ice Age Continental Drift. She was so good and sat happily and watched, but unfortunately the movie itself wasn’t very entertaining. We were both getting bored, so we left after an hour. However, the experiment was a success – she’s ready to watch movies in a theater!
We had soccer class in the evening. I snapped this photo before we left. I wish I could find a picture of myself at this age from this same angle. We could be twins.
Since they had advised us to keep an eye on her for at least 24 hours after the surgery, I stayed home today with Lizzy. Since she was feeling fine, I took this opportunity to take her to her first real movie at the theater. The movie theater by our house does $1 kids movies all summer. So, since she’s free, I thought the worst that happens is we’d be out $1. We saw Ice Age Continental Drift. She was so good and sat happily and watched, but unfortunately the movie itself wasn’t very entertaining. We were both getting bored, so we left after an hour. However, the experiment was a success – she’s ready to watch movies in a theater!
We had soccer class in the evening. I snapped this photo before we left. I wish I could find a picture of myself at this age from this same angle. We could be twins.
July 26, 2013
Lizzy got a hold of my phone and took about 150 selfies. Silly girl. Here are a few of the more entertaining ones.
Lizzy got a hold of my phone and took about 150 selfies. Silly girl. Here are a few of the more entertaining ones.
July 27, 2013
Today at dance class was Princess day. Lizzy decided she wanted to be Snow White. Couldn't you just eat her? They all got little crowns to take home. It was so cute! Dance class has been a lot of fun, and we look forward to the next session starting in September.
Today at dance class was Princess day. Lizzy decided she wanted to be Snow White. Couldn't you just eat her? They all got little crowns to take home. It was so cute! Dance class has been a lot of fun, and we look forward to the next session starting in September.
Here she is, waiting to show her coloring page to her teacher.
The neighborhood was hosting a movie night, so we got all ready and walked across the street to get all snuggled in and watch the film. Within 2 minutes of the movie (Brave) starting, she said “I don’t like this movie. Let’s go home.” So, she and I came back home watched half of Alice in Wonderland instead.
July 28, 2013
Lizzy slept in until after 9:00 am!
July 28, 2013
Lizzy slept in until after 9:00 am!
She is so angelic when she's asleep. Well, she's angelic when she's awake too.
Daddy was golfing, so Lizzy came with me to my friend’s baby shower. She was so funny. She asked everyone to do Ring Around the Rosy with her. So, here we were, a half-dozen 30-something women and a toddler, doing Ring Around the Rosy. We all got a good chuckle out of that.
We recreated our Ring Around the Rosy adventure for the day's group photograph. Look at that little Lizzy face, grinning away down there.
Daddy was golfing, so Lizzy came with me to my friend’s baby shower. She was so funny. She asked everyone to do Ring Around the Rosy with her. So, here we were, a half-dozen 30-something women and a toddler, doing Ring Around the Rosy. We all got a good chuckle out of that.
We recreated our Ring Around the Rosy adventure for the day's group photograph. Look at that little Lizzy face, grinning away down there.
Lizzy had to go potty, so we went into the bathroom. She did a good poopie and pee pee. As I was washing my hands, I turned around and she had slipped out the door. I went into the living room and saw her standing there in front of everyone. She had gone in there to announce that she had done a poop in the potty. Silly girl! At least she has a sense of pride in her accomplishments.
July 29, 2013
Eb and Gee Gee took Lizzy to an arcade to play some games. Here she is, in her words, "driving like Mommy."
July 29, 2013
Eb and Gee Gee took Lizzy to an arcade to play some games. Here she is, in her words, "driving like Mommy."
Once home for the evening, we spent the whole night playing together. At one point, she exclaimed "Let's make shapes!" I said "Okay. What shape should we make." She replied, excitedly, "A hexagon!"
July 30, 2013
I think the phrase "Terrible Twos" is simply awful, unfair, insulting, and utterly inaccurate.
The word "Terrible" never crosses my mind when I think about Elizabeth. When I'm talking to people, and they ask how old she is, they inevitably say "Uh oh! The Terrible Twos!" I take personal offense to this. Elizabeth is anything but terrible. She's kind, loving, gentle, considerate, compassionate, cooperative, funny, warm-hearted, and only wants to do right and please others.
I would like to suggest some alternatives:
Terrific Twos
Talkative Twos
Talented Twos
Tender Twos
Thankful Twos
Thoughtful Twos
Thrilling Twos
Touching Twos
Triumphant Twos (perhaps my favorite!)
Can you think of any others?
July 30, 2013
I think the phrase "Terrible Twos" is simply awful, unfair, insulting, and utterly inaccurate.
The word "Terrible" never crosses my mind when I think about Elizabeth. When I'm talking to people, and they ask how old she is, they inevitably say "Uh oh! The Terrible Twos!" I take personal offense to this. Elizabeth is anything but terrible. She's kind, loving, gentle, considerate, compassionate, cooperative, funny, warm-hearted, and only wants to do right and please others.
I would like to suggest some alternatives:
Terrific Twos
Talkative Twos
Talented Twos
Tender Twos
Thankful Twos
Thoughtful Twos
Thrilling Twos
Touching Twos
Triumphant Twos (perhaps my favorite!)
Can you think of any others?
July 31, 2013
At 4:45 this morning, Lizzy sat up in bed and said “Mama, get up. I have to pee pee.” So, we got up and went to the potty.
We crawled back into bed, and I said “Lizzy, let’s go back to sleep please.”
She replied “No, I’m awake now.” Indeed she was! So, we played for a while, got dressed, left a little early and went and had breakfast together.
Today is the first day I’ve gone to work without my pump. I will have been back 2 years tomorrow, and she’s way past the point where she requires Mommy Milk through the day. While I am happy to not have to pump any longer, I am also sad this phase is ending. However, we’re not weaning! Just a tiny step in that direction.
August 1, 2013
What a fun night we had! It was Lizzy’s first soccer game, and we had gotten tickets to see Chelsea and Inter Milan who, bizarrely, were playing in Indianapolis.
Here is a picture of Lizzy with Stamford the Lion, that I had bought when we visited Stamford Bridge back in 2009.
At 4:45 this morning, Lizzy sat up in bed and said “Mama, get up. I have to pee pee.” So, we got up and went to the potty.
We crawled back into bed, and I said “Lizzy, let’s go back to sleep please.”
She replied “No, I’m awake now.” Indeed she was! So, we played for a while, got dressed, left a little early and went and had breakfast together.
Today is the first day I’ve gone to work without my pump. I will have been back 2 years tomorrow, and she’s way past the point where she requires Mommy Milk through the day. While I am happy to not have to pump any longer, I am also sad this phase is ending. However, we’re not weaning! Just a tiny step in that direction.
August 1, 2013
What a fun night we had! It was Lizzy’s first soccer game, and we had gotten tickets to see Chelsea and Inter Milan who, bizarrely, were playing in Indianapolis.
Here is a picture of Lizzy with Stamford the Lion, that I had bought when we visited Stamford Bridge back in 2009.
We had great seats, and I was surprised at how much Lizzy actually watched the action on the pitch. She needed to go potty, so while we were away, I picked up a little souvenir for her. How cute is this?
During the second half, she announced “I’m going downstairs. Be back soon!” which made everyone around us laugh. The lady next to us said she’d give Lizzy some money for popcorn. I asked Liz how much shethought the popcorn would cost and you said “three.” I asked her how long she would be gone. She replied “two minutes.” Everyone around was laughing at our funny little girl.
After the match, we got to go on the field. Lizzy LOVED this. She ran and ran and ran and ran. She really wanted her shoes off, and as I didn’t see any harm in this, off they came.
After the match, we got to go on the field. Lizzy LOVED this. She ran and ran and ran and ran. She really wanted her shoes off, and as I didn’t see any harm in this, off they came.
Because she was so ridiculously cute, other people were wanting to have their photo taken with Lizzy. She doesn't look too thrilled, though.
Around 10:30, we headed back to the car. She really enjoyed all the sights and sounds of downtown at night. I think she’ll REALLY like London in a few months, then!
August 3, 2013
Saturday morning we got up early and went to the Markleville parade. We ate biscuits and gravy for breakfast, and then looked at the tractors and fire trucks. It wasn’t much of a parade, but she really enjoyed it. When the tractors would smoke, she’d say “Holy smokes!” We saw fire and police vehicles, lots of tractors, but the highlight was all the candy she collected.
August 3, 2013
Saturday morning we got up early and went to the Markleville parade. We ate biscuits and gravy for breakfast, and then looked at the tractors and fire trucks. It wasn’t much of a parade, but she really enjoyed it. When the tractors would smoke, she’d say “Holy smokes!” We saw fire and police vehicles, lots of tractors, but the highlight was all the candy she collected.
She also wanted to get up on stage to perform.
August 5, 2013
As we were driving in the morning, we went past a stop sign. Lizzy has long known what a stop sign says and what it means. I asked if she could spell it. I started “S…T…” and she finished “O…P!” She so knows her letters.
Eb and Gee Gee took her to the park to play.
As we were driving in the morning, we went past a stop sign. Lizzy has long known what a stop sign says and what it means. I asked if she could spell it. I started “S…T…” and she finished “O…P!” She so knows her letters.
Eb and Gee Gee took her to the park to play.
Eb had written to Coin World magazine about Elizabeth's interest in his coin collection. It got published! This is a capture of the online version, but Eb has the print copy in the publication.
August 6, 2013
I brought Liz some empty notebooks from my desk at work, since she’s so enjoying writing and drawing right now. She saw them, and excitedly said “Where’d you get those!?”
She’s been so funny the last week or so, substituting the word “nose” as often as she can, in whatever situation she can. It makes us all giggle. It all started as we’d sing Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and I’d let her sing the last word of every line. Then they all became “nose.” Then everything became “nose.” So now “Happy Birthday” is “Happy Birthday to Nose.” Jingle Bells is “Jingle all the nose.” Counting is “One, Two, Three, Nose.”
August 8, 2013
At 2:30 this morning, she woke up crying in her sleep that she wanted to “sleep nakey.” I took off her pajama shirt and shorts, and she said “take off my pull up too.” So, nakey she slept!
Eb had Lizzy help put the bottles of water into the refrigerator. Afterwards, she climbed into the empty package and said "I'm water!"
I brought Liz some empty notebooks from my desk at work, since she’s so enjoying writing and drawing right now. She saw them, and excitedly said “Where’d you get those!?”
She’s been so funny the last week or so, substituting the word “nose” as often as she can, in whatever situation she can. It makes us all giggle. It all started as we’d sing Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and I’d let her sing the last word of every line. Then they all became “nose.” Then everything became “nose.” So now “Happy Birthday” is “Happy Birthday to Nose.” Jingle Bells is “Jingle all the nose.” Counting is “One, Two, Three, Nose.”
August 8, 2013
At 2:30 this morning, she woke up crying in her sleep that she wanted to “sleep nakey.” I took off her pajama shirt and shorts, and she said “take off my pull up too.” So, nakey she slept!
Eb had Lizzy help put the bottles of water into the refrigerator. Afterwards, she climbed into the empty package and said "I'm water!"
Eb and Gee had balloons for her today, and she insisted she bring them home for Daddy’s Birthday Party. There are birthday hats that must be worn, candles that will be lit and blown, and cake(s) that will be picked up on Saturday. She has big plans for Daddy’s birthday! I’m sure when we sing it will be “Happy Birthday to Nose” however.
Today we are excited to welcome Lizzy’s very first Second Cousin into the world, Stella Florence Leathers. This beautiful baby girl makes us all smile.
Today we are excited to welcome Lizzy’s very first Second Cousin into the world, Stella Florence Leathers. This beautiful baby girl makes us all smile.
August 10, 2013
Lizzy and I got up early to go get Daddy’s birthday treats. He really wanted a cake from Classic Cakes, but she insisted he have cupcakes, so we went to Gigi’s and got those too.
Lizzy and I got up early to go get Daddy’s birthday treats. He really wanted a cake from Classic Cakes, but she insisted he have cupcakes, so we went to Gigi’s and got those too.
Once we got home, I put Lizzy inside, and ran back out to grab the cake and cupcakes from my car. I found her at the bottom of the stairs, yelling at the top of her lungs, “DADDY ITS YOUR BIRTHDAY!” She gets really excited about birthdays!
After we got home, she was playing with her beach ball. She looked at me and said “I miss the beach. I need to go back.” It was sunny and beautiful, and I knew we had about an hour or two to kill before her nap time, so we went to the beach.
After we got home, she was playing with her beach ball. She looked at me and said “I miss the beach. I need to go back.” It was sunny and beautiful, and I knew we had about an hour or two to kill before her nap time, so we went to the beach.
In the evening, we went to Lizzy’s first State Fair! She saw cows, horses, sheep and pigs. She saw a cow poop and thought it was hilarious. We all had lots of yummy lemonade, and saw a parade. We then rode rides just as dusk fell and the lights were coming on in the Midway. What perfect timing!
After our 5 rides, she wanted a shaved ice, so we got a green one and shared that all the way home.
August 11, 2013
Sunday morning we got up early and went to Eb to a coin show. It was really nice, as at the venue they had a delicious breakfast for charity. The three of us ate, then Eb got some coins on his wish list. The facility had a fantastic playground, so we played while Eb perused the coins. We also found a nice tree stump and had fun taking some pictures.
August 11, 2013
Sunday morning we got up early and went to Eb to a coin show. It was really nice, as at the venue they had a delicious breakfast for charity. The three of us ate, then Eb got some coins on his wish list. The facility had a fantastic playground, so we played while Eb perused the coins. We also found a nice tree stump and had fun taking some pictures.
After nap time, we got up and cut Daddy’s birthday cake. She insisted he wear his birthday hat, and she and I had to wear one each as well. Surprisingly, she sang happy birthday to “Daddy” instead of “nose!”
August 13, 2013
Today Lizzy went to the park and was fascinated by the waterfall. Even so far as to ignore the ducks to head off to that new excitement. She then went to get ice cream with Eb and Gee. She asked for a “banilla cone with sprinkles.”
August 13, 2013
Today Lizzy went to the park and was fascinated by the waterfall. Even so far as to ignore the ducks to head off to that new excitement. She then went to get ice cream with Eb and Gee. She asked for a “banilla cone with sprinkles.”
She is really digging Winnie the Pooh right now. As we were nursing in the evening, she stopped nursing, and said “I’m Winnie the Pooh, and this is my honey.” Silly little girl!
August 14, 2013
As I get things ready in the morning, I bring her downstairs to lay on the couch as she wakes up. I was in the kitchen, and she hopped off the couch – COMPLETELY ASLEEP – wandered over to me, and said “I need to go to Dinsey.” We have a sleepwalker on our hands…
She has lately been very interested in from which stores items were purchased. “What store did you buy this from?” is asked probably 10 times a day.
In the evening, she came and put a sticker on my arm, telling me “There Mama. That’ll help you sleep better.”
August 15, 2013
We went to the dentist office for a follow-up from her surgery. She did great, and we don’t need to go back until a normal cleaning visit in February.
August 14, 2013
As I get things ready in the morning, I bring her downstairs to lay on the couch as she wakes up. I was in the kitchen, and she hopped off the couch – COMPLETELY ASLEEP – wandered over to me, and said “I need to go to Dinsey.” We have a sleepwalker on our hands…
She has lately been very interested in from which stores items were purchased. “What store did you buy this from?” is asked probably 10 times a day.
In the evening, she came and put a sticker on my arm, telling me “There Mama. That’ll help you sleep better.”
August 15, 2013
We went to the dentist office for a follow-up from her surgery. She did great, and we don’t need to go back until a normal cleaning visit in February.
We went to soccer class and she paid attention for nearly the whole class, which is pretty impressive. She has so much fun!
August 17, 2013
In the morning, as we were making breakfast, she asked her Daddy “Where do you come from, Daddy?” He responded “I come from London. Where do you come from?” She said, without hesitation “I come from Gee Gee’s house.”
We had a lovely lunch at Daddy Jack’s. She ate so well! Tenderloin, 2 pickles, tomatoes, bread. She really likes tenderloin and mustard.
We headed to Gymboree for Kieran’s party at 3:00, only to realize I’d gotten it wrong and it was really at 4:00. Okay, no problem. So, we headed to a park to have a lovely walk to kill some time. It was quite fun, although she fell and skinned her knees as we were headed back to the car. Nothing too bad, though. We went to CVS to get some band-aids, and all was well.
She had a great time at the party, loving being back at Gymboree again. At cake time, she sat so big and good at the table, and ate an entire ice cream cup by herself, with no help!
August 17, 2013
In the morning, as we were making breakfast, she asked her Daddy “Where do you come from, Daddy?” He responded “I come from London. Where do you come from?” She said, without hesitation “I come from Gee Gee’s house.”
We had a lovely lunch at Daddy Jack’s. She ate so well! Tenderloin, 2 pickles, tomatoes, bread. She really likes tenderloin and mustard.
We headed to Gymboree for Kieran’s party at 3:00, only to realize I’d gotten it wrong and it was really at 4:00. Okay, no problem. So, we headed to a park to have a lovely walk to kill some time. It was quite fun, although she fell and skinned her knees as we were headed back to the car. Nothing too bad, though. We went to CVS to get some band-aids, and all was well.
She had a great time at the party, loving being back at Gymboree again. At cake time, she sat so big and good at the table, and ate an entire ice cream cup by herself, with no help!
August 18, 2013
Sunday was a great day! We got up, had breakfast, and went downtown to the Star Wars Exhibit at the Indiana State Museum (or, as Lizzy says, MOOO-seum). She had so much fun, and even liked Darth Vader. After we had our photo with Mr. Vader, she said “Let’s go back and show him our picture.”
Sunday was a great day! We got up, had breakfast, and went downtown to the Star Wars Exhibit at the Indiana State Museum (or, as Lizzy says, MOOO-seum). She had so much fun, and even liked Darth Vader. After we had our photo with Mr. Vader, she said “Let’s go back and show him our picture.”
We then went through the rest of the Museum, and she really liked the animal exhibits.
On the ride home, she gave me this silly smile face, and then proceeded to take about 100 selfies.
On the ride home, she gave me this silly smile face, and then proceeded to take about 100 selfies.
In the evening, she wanted to watch “Darth Vader movie”, which we did until she fell asleep.
August 19, 2013
A phrase Lizzy is using a lot is “too really.” “I’m too really scared” or “I’m too really sleepy.” It’s so cute!
The other thing is “no problems”, which she says when she’s nervous or apprehensive about something. It’s often said with a little quaver in her voice. That way, I know she’s worried about something and I can console her little heart.
Also, ever since Sunday, she's been talking a lot about Darth Vader. "Darth Vader is my friend." I'm sure he is, Lizzy. Everyone is your friend.
August 20, 2013
What a great fun night we had! First we went to the coin shop. She talked to the men there. They asked her what she gets when she comes to the coin store, and she said “change.” She counted out her 10 pennies, and then didn’t want to get out of the chair, saying “No, I’m not done working.”
We next went to visit Baby Stella. She was such a little chatterbox when we were there! She said “There are two mommies” and then told Michelle that her eyes are brown. She touched Baby Stella’s arms and hair. We got a lovely photo together, too.
August 19, 2013
A phrase Lizzy is using a lot is “too really.” “I’m too really scared” or “I’m too really sleepy.” It’s so cute!
The other thing is “no problems”, which she says when she’s nervous or apprehensive about something. It’s often said with a little quaver in her voice. That way, I know she’s worried about something and I can console her little heart.
Also, ever since Sunday, she's been talking a lot about Darth Vader. "Darth Vader is my friend." I'm sure he is, Lizzy. Everyone is your friend.
August 20, 2013
What a great fun night we had! First we went to the coin shop. She talked to the men there. They asked her what she gets when she comes to the coin store, and she said “change.” She counted out her 10 pennies, and then didn’t want to get out of the chair, saying “No, I’m not done working.”
We next went to visit Baby Stella. She was such a little chatterbox when we were there! She said “There are two mommies” and then told Michelle that her eyes are brown. She touched Baby Stella’s arms and hair. We got a lovely photo together, too.
Next, we went on a big adventure at Meijer. First, she rode “Big Red.” Then, back to the fish. Then, the toy aisle, where somehow she found a little Darth Vader/Angry Birds ball, put it on her head, and marched up and down the aisle saying “I’m Darth Vader. I look funny.” However, she didn’t want the toy. She put it back, and also didn’t want the Mr. Potato Head bucket of parts, or the game I was going to buy her.
As we were lying in bed, very nearly asleep (I thought she was asleep, actually), I heard her suddenly start to quietly count to herself. She’s been counting to 20 for a while now, so this wasn’t new.
But then, I hear.
21…22…23…all the way up to 30.
31…32…33…all the way up to 40.
41…42…43…all the way up to 49!
She stopped at 49, probably because no one has yet taught her that 50 is next.
August 21, 2013
As we were lying in bed, very nearly asleep (I thought she was asleep, actually), I heard her suddenly start to quietly count to herself. She’s been counting to 20 for a while now, so this wasn’t new.
But then, I hear.
21…22…23…all the way up to 30.
31…32…33…all the way up to 40.
41…42…43…all the way up to 49!
She stopped at 49, probably because no one has yet taught her that 50 is next.
August 21, 2013
August 23, 2013
Tonight, we watched Empire Strikes Back together. She insists we call her “R2D2” now. She’ll ask “What’s my robot name?” and we have to answer R2D2.
August 24, 2013
We had a VERY busy morning, which led to a later than expected nap that threw off some plans I had that afternoon. When she woke up, we decided to go to the pool for the rest of the sunny day. Once we got home, I asked her if she would take Daddy’s swim trunks and put them in the laundry. I was sitting in the kitchen and watched her go into the laundry room. I had thought she would just put them in the hamper. I watched as she went into the laundry room. Next, I heard the washing machine door open, and it play the little song it plays when it’s turned on. She had put his trunks into the washing machine and turned it on!
August 25, 2013
For lunch, we had sandwiches. She made one for me.
Baby Stella was coming over for her newborn pictures, so Daddy was getting the camera setup, and he just happened to snap this photo.
Tonight, we watched Empire Strikes Back together. She insists we call her “R2D2” now. She’ll ask “What’s my robot name?” and we have to answer R2D2.
August 24, 2013
We had a VERY busy morning, which led to a later than expected nap that threw off some plans I had that afternoon. When she woke up, we decided to go to the pool for the rest of the sunny day. Once we got home, I asked her if she would take Daddy’s swim trunks and put them in the laundry. I was sitting in the kitchen and watched her go into the laundry room. I had thought she would just put them in the hamper. I watched as she went into the laundry room. Next, I heard the washing machine door open, and it play the little song it plays when it’s turned on. She had put his trunks into the washing machine and turned it on!
August 25, 2013
For lunch, we had sandwiches. She made one for me.
Baby Stella was coming over for her newborn pictures, so Daddy was getting the camera setup, and he just happened to snap this photo.
The day prior, Gee Gee had sent home a little rocking newborn/toddler seat that Elizabeth fits into perfectly. She had started playing that it was an airplane seat. She’d get her “bags”, put them onto the scale, declare they were “too heavy”, then get on the plane (which means sitting in the seat, buckled in.) I then have to pretend to be the stewardess, bringing by cookies and drinks. Then we land, get off the plane, get on a bus to “Dinsey.” She was REALLY loving this seat.
Well, it was supposed to go home for Stella. As Michelle, Kyle, and Stella were preparing to leave, Lizzy stood forlornly by the door, sadly staring at the seat. She didn’t want them to take it! They were kind enough to let her keep her pretend airplane seat, so she can keep playing!
In the evening, she and I made homemade guacamole. She helped me smash the mixture, put in the onions and tomatoes, and stir everything up. After it had chilled, she helped me eat it. She kept saying things like “This is delicious!”, “I love this!” and “It’s my favorite!” I think she liked it.
This evening we started Return of the Jedi. She’s pretty serious about Star Wars it seems.
August 26, 2013
At Eb and Gee Gee’s today, she made cupcakes. She brought 3 of them home, and was so proud of them when we all at them together. They had a LOT of sprinkles that she had put on there, but we managed to eat them. :o)
We finished watching Return of the Jedi. Once it had ended, she announced “I’ve watched three Star Wars movies.”
Later that evening, she started counting, all on her own: R2D1, R2D2, R2D3, R2D4, R2D5…
August 27, 2013
She has REALLY been enjoying learning about airplanes lately.
August 28, 2013
This morning we went to meet Lizzy’s teachers, since she starts school next week. She was a little apprehensive at first. I kept trying to talk excitedly about it, and she would say “Mama, stop talking about it.”
Well, it was supposed to go home for Stella. As Michelle, Kyle, and Stella were preparing to leave, Lizzy stood forlornly by the door, sadly staring at the seat. She didn’t want them to take it! They were kind enough to let her keep her pretend airplane seat, so she can keep playing!
In the evening, she and I made homemade guacamole. She helped me smash the mixture, put in the onions and tomatoes, and stir everything up. After it had chilled, she helped me eat it. She kept saying things like “This is delicious!”, “I love this!” and “It’s my favorite!” I think she liked it.
This evening we started Return of the Jedi. She’s pretty serious about Star Wars it seems.
August 26, 2013
At Eb and Gee Gee’s today, she made cupcakes. She brought 3 of them home, and was so proud of them when we all at them together. They had a LOT of sprinkles that she had put on there, but we managed to eat them. :o)
We finished watching Return of the Jedi. Once it had ended, she announced “I’ve watched three Star Wars movies.”
Later that evening, she started counting, all on her own: R2D1, R2D2, R2D3, R2D4, R2D5…
August 27, 2013
She has REALLY been enjoying learning about airplanes lately.
August 28, 2013
This morning we went to meet Lizzy’s teachers, since she starts school next week. She was a little apprehensive at first. I kept trying to talk excitedly about it, and she would say “Mama, stop talking about it.”
The meeting itself went great! Once we arrived, she really liked the little room. She found a little chair and said “Mama, you sit here” while she proceeded to play. I had to stay put in the chair! At the end of the 45 minutes, she didn’t want to leave. Isn’t that the way it always is?
August 30, 2013
For weeks, Lizzy has been talking about getting a haircut. A few weeks ago, we took her to Cookie Cutters so she could see how it all works, but we didn’t pressure her to get a cut at that time. Today, out of the blue, she announced she wanted to get her haircut. We went ahead and took her, but I was certain she’d change her mind at the last minute, so I wasn’t going to force her or pressure her. We went, and she went through with it!
August 30, 2013
For weeks, Lizzy has been talking about getting a haircut. A few weeks ago, we took her to Cookie Cutters so she could see how it all works, but we didn’t pressure her to get a cut at that time. Today, out of the blue, she announced she wanted to get her haircut. We went ahead and took her, but I was certain she’d change her mind at the last minute, so I wasn’t going to force her or pressure her. We went, and she went through with it!
It was a great experience. They only cut off about a half an inch, just to even up the back. We got to keep all of the clippings (including enough for both sets of grandparents to have some!), and they gave us a neat little “first haircut” certificate. What a great experience!
August 31, 2013
We had a tremendously fun time at Gymboree this morning. The theme of the day was methods of transportation. Her teacher asked the kids “what did you get in to come to Gymboree this morning?,” to which Lizzy replied “a race car!” Silly girl :o)
Gymboree took a lot of out her, because when we went to lunch immediately afterwards, she fell asleep in my arms in the booth.
We had a tremendously fun time at Gymboree this morning. The theme of the day was methods of transportation. Her teacher asked the kids “what did you get in to come to Gymboree this morning?,” to which Lizzy replied “a race car!” Silly girl :o)
Gymboree took a lot of out her, because when we went to lunch immediately afterwards, she fell asleep in my arms in the booth.
September 1, 2013
Eb made a big crab boil lunch for us today at his house, so we spent most of the day there with them, eating and playing. What fun!
September 2, 2013
It was Labor Day, so we all had the beautiful day off to enjoy. We started it by sleeping until 9:45!
We went to Buca for lunch, and got to sit in the kitchen table, which I’ve always wanted to do. We all enjoyed watching the kitchen action! We had a fantastic meal, and Lizzy ate LOTS of spaghetti and meatballs. Yummy! After our meal, she wanted us to “take pictures all together”, so we obliged.
Eb made a big crab boil lunch for us today at his house, so we spent most of the day there with them, eating and playing. What fun!
September 2, 2013
It was Labor Day, so we all had the beautiful day off to enjoy. We started it by sleeping until 9:45!
We went to Buca for lunch, and got to sit in the kitchen table, which I’ve always wanted to do. We all enjoyed watching the kitchen action! We had a fantastic meal, and Lizzy ate LOTS of spaghetti and meatballs. Yummy! After our meal, she wanted us to “take pictures all together”, so we obliged.
Would you look at this perfect little chin dimple?
Afterwards, we went to Build a Bear. She chose her bear, of course, and then, out of all the clothing options, she chose a Darth Vader costume for her bear.
September 5, 2013
In the morning, while still asleep, she was saying “I’ll give Daddy monkey kisses.”
September 6, 2013
This update is coming to you live from Lizzy’s preschool’s Hospitality Room, where I will be spending my working Fridays for the next several months.
She did SO GREAT this morning. I got the obligatory “first day of school” photo:
In the morning, while still asleep, she was saying “I’ll give Daddy monkey kisses.”
September 6, 2013
This update is coming to you live from Lizzy’s preschool’s Hospitality Room, where I will be spending my working Fridays for the next several months.
She did SO GREAT this morning. I got the obligatory “first day of school” photo:
Once we arrived at her classroom, she wanted in. Badly. She was so excited to go play! She basically dismissed me, saying “Bye Mama. Go to work.” I think this is so good for her, learning to interact with new people.
Their curriculum will be a little easy for her. The first part of this year they’ll learn colors (she’s known all her colors for over a year now), and shapes (she knows octagons and hexagons, as well as dimensional shapes like pyramids, cones, cubes, and cylinders.) Later this year she’ll learn numbers (she can count to 49 by herself, and recognizes numbers by sight, too) and letters (which she knows her entire alphabet.) However, her main benefit will be the social aspect. I can’t wait to hear from her how she likes it!
Shortly after I had updated her website, I got the follow text message photo from her teacher:
Their curriculum will be a little easy for her. The first part of this year they’ll learn colors (she’s known all her colors for over a year now), and shapes (she knows octagons and hexagons, as well as dimensional shapes like pyramids, cones, cubes, and cylinders.) Later this year she’ll learn numbers (she can count to 49 by herself, and recognizes numbers by sight, too) and letters (which she knows her entire alphabet.) However, her main benefit will be the social aspect. I can’t wait to hear from her how she likes it!
Shortly after I had updated her website, I got the follow text message photo from her teacher:
She had curled up in the teacher’s arms and went to sleep while they were on the playground! She slept 2.5 hours. She woke up around 1:00, went potty with the teacher, and this is the scene I saw when I turned the corner to pick her up around 1:25:
She was on the floor, happily playing blocks with one of her teachers and some of the other little ones. I watched the happy scene for a bit before she realized I was there. When she turned around, she had the biggest smile on her face, and said “Mommy! I’m working on blocks!” She was so excited to tell me about her day. I had such peace in my heart knowing she enjoyed the time she was awake, at least.
September 7, 2013
After a wonderful time at Gymboree, she said she wanted a tenderloin at Daddy Jack’s. However, within about 5 minutes of sitting down, she had fallen asleep. That’s the second week in a row she fell asleep at lunch. Guess we won’t be doing that anymore!
In the late afternoon, we went to a friend’s 1st birthday party. It was very hot, and Liz kept saying “I’m too sweaty. Let’s go inside.” So, we did. It was a lot of fun, but she was ready to leave after the cake was finished.
September 8, 2013
We all got up early to go to the coin show with Eb. She ate a TON for breakfast, then she and Daddy played on the playground while Eb and I looked at coins.
September 7, 2013
After a wonderful time at Gymboree, she said she wanted a tenderloin at Daddy Jack’s. However, within about 5 minutes of sitting down, she had fallen asleep. That’s the second week in a row she fell asleep at lunch. Guess we won’t be doing that anymore!
In the late afternoon, we went to a friend’s 1st birthday party. It was very hot, and Liz kept saying “I’m too sweaty. Let’s go inside.” So, we did. It was a lot of fun, but she was ready to leave after the cake was finished.
September 8, 2013
We all got up early to go to the coin show with Eb. She ate a TON for breakfast, then she and Daddy played on the playground while Eb and I looked at coins.
After her nap, we watched the Colts game. She saw that Daddy’s shirt was like the people on TV, and she wanted to wear it.
She saw the mascot, Blue, and informed us that “Big Red is in there.” (Big Red is the horse from her birthday party, and pretty much any red horse is named Big Red now.) It seems she is now cognizant of the fact that people are inside costumes. I hope this doesn’t take away from any of the magic next time we’re at Dinsey!
In the evening, we went shopping and had dinner.
In the evening, we went shopping and had dinner.
Before bed, I told her to dream about happy things. She said “I will dream about nunning, tickles, Winnie the Pooh, and smiles.” Those are very happy things, sweetheart.
September 10, 2013
This sweet angel makes my heart melt. We were, once again, nearly asleep. I suddenly felt her little hands grab my cheeks. She gave me the softest little angel kiss on my lips, and said "I love you Mama." Then, she put her soft hand on my neck, and whispered "I want you to have happy dreams." Just like I'd said to her a few nights ago. Sometimes I can't believe how lucky I am to have this perfect child in my life.
September 11, 2013
Eb and Gee brought Lizzy home so we could celebrate my birthday one day early. She was so excited to give me my presents, and she sang Happy Birthday to me in her sweet angel voice. We went to eat and all had tenderloins. Eb and Gee couldn't believe how much she loves tenderloin and mustard. I'd been telling them this!
September 13, 2013
Preschool, Day 2. Daddy got to come with us this morning, and she was excited to show him the classroom. She did cry a bit this morning, so I got to stay with her in the classroom as long as I wanted until she was engaged and playing and okay with me leaving. I was able to help her go poopie in the baby potty, and saw her come back in from outside play with a big smile!
One funny discovery I made this morning. Normally, in the evenings, she'll want to be "nakey." As she's just a sweet, innocent toddler, I have no problems with this. At some point last night, she must have gone into the bathroom, gone pee pee in her little potty, wiped, and told no one about it. What's odd is I don't remember her ever being out of sight, so she must have been VERY quick about it!
I only found out when I went into the bathroom this morning to find a rather large wad of pee-soaked toilet paper, where it had absorbed all of the pee overnight. While very proud of her for going potty completely solo, it would've been nice for her to have told one of us! :o)
As I was retrieving Liz from her classroom, her teacher pulled me aside to tell me how amazed she was at how well Elizabeth could communicate. She said she's by far the best communicator in the classroom, and "she can really tell us exactly what she wants." For instance, there is a beanbag chair in the classroom. She asked the teacher "can you move this chair over by the door for me please?" Then she asked for some books. She then proceeded to sit in the beanbag chair with her books, and fell asleep in the chair reading to herself.
Lizzy informed me that she had her hands painted blue today, and that when the "babies were crying I dried their eyes." Both of these were confirmed by her teacher. Today's art project was painted handprints, and Lizzy was the only child to request a special color of her choosing. When the others were crying, she would go get a Kleenex and help them dry their eyes. What a tender hearted angel we have.
Friday night was such fun. We headed downtown after work and ate dinner at Old Spaghetti Factory. She LOVED taking the elevator to and from the potty in the basement. She ate really well (croutons, bread, spaghetti and meatballs and ice cream!) Then we headed over to the Fever game. We had courtside seats, so we got to see the action up close. Freddy Fever gave her a high five, and she had such a huge (astonished!) smile on her face. At halftime, we got a Fever hat too from the people that hand out prizes. She was really into the game too. When the players were at our end of the court, she’d be in my lap. When the action moved to the other end, she’d climb over to Daddy’s lap to better see what was happening over there. What a great night!
September 10, 2013
This sweet angel makes my heart melt. We were, once again, nearly asleep. I suddenly felt her little hands grab my cheeks. She gave me the softest little angel kiss on my lips, and said "I love you Mama." Then, she put her soft hand on my neck, and whispered "I want you to have happy dreams." Just like I'd said to her a few nights ago. Sometimes I can't believe how lucky I am to have this perfect child in my life.
September 11, 2013
Eb and Gee brought Lizzy home so we could celebrate my birthday one day early. She was so excited to give me my presents, and she sang Happy Birthday to me in her sweet angel voice. We went to eat and all had tenderloins. Eb and Gee couldn't believe how much she loves tenderloin and mustard. I'd been telling them this!
September 13, 2013
Preschool, Day 2. Daddy got to come with us this morning, and she was excited to show him the classroom. She did cry a bit this morning, so I got to stay with her in the classroom as long as I wanted until she was engaged and playing and okay with me leaving. I was able to help her go poopie in the baby potty, and saw her come back in from outside play with a big smile!
One funny discovery I made this morning. Normally, in the evenings, she'll want to be "nakey." As she's just a sweet, innocent toddler, I have no problems with this. At some point last night, she must have gone into the bathroom, gone pee pee in her little potty, wiped, and told no one about it. What's odd is I don't remember her ever being out of sight, so she must have been VERY quick about it!
I only found out when I went into the bathroom this morning to find a rather large wad of pee-soaked toilet paper, where it had absorbed all of the pee overnight. While very proud of her for going potty completely solo, it would've been nice for her to have told one of us! :o)
As I was retrieving Liz from her classroom, her teacher pulled me aside to tell me how amazed she was at how well Elizabeth could communicate. She said she's by far the best communicator in the classroom, and "she can really tell us exactly what she wants." For instance, there is a beanbag chair in the classroom. She asked the teacher "can you move this chair over by the door for me please?" Then she asked for some books. She then proceeded to sit in the beanbag chair with her books, and fell asleep in the chair reading to herself.
Lizzy informed me that she had her hands painted blue today, and that when the "babies were crying I dried their eyes." Both of these were confirmed by her teacher. Today's art project was painted handprints, and Lizzy was the only child to request a special color of her choosing. When the others were crying, she would go get a Kleenex and help them dry their eyes. What a tender hearted angel we have.
Friday night was such fun. We headed downtown after work and ate dinner at Old Spaghetti Factory. She LOVED taking the elevator to and from the potty in the basement. She ate really well (croutons, bread, spaghetti and meatballs and ice cream!) Then we headed over to the Fever game. We had courtside seats, so we got to see the action up close. Freddy Fever gave her a high five, and she had such a huge (astonished!) smile on her face. At halftime, we got a Fever hat too from the people that hand out prizes. She was really into the game too. When the players were at our end of the court, she’d be in my lap. When the action moved to the other end, she’d climb over to Daddy’s lap to better see what was happening over there. What a great night!
September 14, 2013
Today was Lizzy’s friend Jane’s 3rd birthday party. It was a dinosaur themed party at a park, and she loved the playground, exploring, and the yummy picnic lunch. The goodies were a dinosaur hat and tail, which she LOVED LOVED LOVED! She kept saying she was Cobby Hugglemonster, and didn’t want to take off the tail to get in her car seat. She played so much in that 2 1/2 hours, that she fell asleep within minutes of leaving the park.
Today was Lizzy’s friend Jane’s 3rd birthday party. It was a dinosaur themed party at a park, and she loved the playground, exploring, and the yummy picnic lunch. The goodies were a dinosaur hat and tail, which she LOVED LOVED LOVED! She kept saying she was Cobby Hugglemonster, and didn’t want to take off the tail to get in her car seat. She played so much in that 2 1/2 hours, that she fell asleep within minutes of leaving the park.
Once everyone had nice afternoon naps, we headed to the Apple Orchard. We first went and got a carmel apple and apple cider slushie, which were great. We walked across to see the goats and llama, and then got in the wagon and picked apples. Such fun!
Afterwards, we went to the Farm Store and got tomatoes, cider, and a “back-up pie” in case my planned apple pie failed, then we went to see the bees making honey. Such a fun time.
September 15, 2013
We got up early to go have breakfast with Granny. It was great! As we were waiting for our food, I gave her 3 pennies to play with. We started doing addition and subtraction with them. "If you have one, and I give you two more, how many will you have?" type things. She got them right every time. Hooray for simple arithmetic at two and a quarter!
We then went to get a new Colts shirt for her (we bought her a 3T, which will be quickly outgrown, so we need to return it and get a size 4 instead), since she asked to wear Daddy’s shirt again. She likes to match what Mommy and Daddy are doing, so if it’s important to her, then we like to oblige!
September 18, 2013
Daddy came home from Chicago after bath time. He had stopped at 5 Guys to get himself a burger and fries since Lizzy and I had already eaten. Once he came in, she said “Daddy, you brought dinner! I want some fries.” We asked how she knew there were fries. She said “Because they smell really tasty!”
September 19, 2013
Today’s was Ed’s birthday, so we went out for dinner. While we were at dinner, she asked if “everybody will go to Menchie’s” (ice cream). She was so excited that we all went! It’s really funny – Gee Gee couldn’t remember what it was called, so she mispronounced it. Lizzy said “That’s not the right word. It’s Menchies.” I love it that our 2 year old corrects us!
September 21, 2013
At Gymboree today, she was so funny. The teacher asked what was in her basket that you could dig up dirt with. Lizzy answered, enthusiastically, “A Bobcat!”
September 15, 2013
We got up early to go have breakfast with Granny. It was great! As we were waiting for our food, I gave her 3 pennies to play with. We started doing addition and subtraction with them. "If you have one, and I give you two more, how many will you have?" type things. She got them right every time. Hooray for simple arithmetic at two and a quarter!
We then went to get a new Colts shirt for her (we bought her a 3T, which will be quickly outgrown, so we need to return it and get a size 4 instead), since she asked to wear Daddy’s shirt again. She likes to match what Mommy and Daddy are doing, so if it’s important to her, then we like to oblige!
September 18, 2013
Daddy came home from Chicago after bath time. He had stopped at 5 Guys to get himself a burger and fries since Lizzy and I had already eaten. Once he came in, she said “Daddy, you brought dinner! I want some fries.” We asked how she knew there were fries. She said “Because they smell really tasty!”
September 19, 2013
Today’s was Ed’s birthday, so we went out for dinner. While we were at dinner, she asked if “everybody will go to Menchie’s” (ice cream). She was so excited that we all went! It’s really funny – Gee Gee couldn’t remember what it was called, so she mispronounced it. Lizzy said “That’s not the right word. It’s Menchies.” I love it that our 2 year old corrects us!
September 21, 2013
At Gymboree today, she was so funny. The teacher asked what was in her basket that you could dig up dirt with. Lizzy answered, enthusiastically, “A Bobcat!”
September 22, 2013
I need to stop writing “Lizzy,” as my 2 year old has asked that we call her “Elizabeth” now. She’ll put her hand on her chest and say “I’m Elizabeth” when I call her Lizzy. Whoops!
We read the book “The Snowman” in the morning, and then spent the next several hours pretending I was The Snowman. We’d get by the fireplace (which was “really lovely”) and then go get in the freezer.
We had such a busy play day. From the basement, to my car, to getting in a sleeping bag, to watching a movie. It was a wonderfully fun stay-at-home sort of day.
September 23, 2013
This funny little girl had everyone laughing so much today. Last week she had taken the key from a box of Ed’s, and hidden it somewhere. Ed asked her if she knew where the key was. She said “it’s a mystery” and kept right on playing. A little while later, he asked her again. She said “I hid they key the other day.” Then she took him and showed him where she’d hidden it, behind their couch. “By the heater” she said, even though no one has ever told her there’s a heater there, or even what it is. Then she showed him how she’d hidden it, by throwing it with her arm.
Later, she was playing in Eb’s truck, and found a lightbulb. She held it over her head and said “I have an idea!”
On our way home, I asked if her wanted to be a Bee or Jesse for Halloween. She said “I want to be a Storm Trooper.” Where did that come from?!
While we were home eating dinner, she was playing with her rocket ship (a large cardboard box). She did her blastoff countdown from 10, pretended to go to Mars to see Martian Mickey, then came back to Earth. She got out of her ship and said “Mama, you’re happy to see me. I’m back on Earth.”
We caught her reading a book about Daddy animals and their babies to herself. For each page, she was narrating the pictures, saying “Daddy caterpillar and baby caterpillar. Daddy dog and baby dog.” It was so sweet!
She’s been asking me to spell words a lot lately, too. “Mama, how do you spell dog?” sort of things. She’s very interested in spelling right now. Surely a precursor to reading!
Before bed, she wanted to play doctor. She made me get on the scale, measured how tall I was, brushed my teeth, looked in my ears, listened to my heart, and pushed on my tummy. I love her imagination!
I need to stop writing “Lizzy,” as my 2 year old has asked that we call her “Elizabeth” now. She’ll put her hand on her chest and say “I’m Elizabeth” when I call her Lizzy. Whoops!
We read the book “The Snowman” in the morning, and then spent the next several hours pretending I was The Snowman. We’d get by the fireplace (which was “really lovely”) and then go get in the freezer.
We had such a busy play day. From the basement, to my car, to getting in a sleeping bag, to watching a movie. It was a wonderfully fun stay-at-home sort of day.
September 23, 2013
This funny little girl had everyone laughing so much today. Last week she had taken the key from a box of Ed’s, and hidden it somewhere. Ed asked her if she knew where the key was. She said “it’s a mystery” and kept right on playing. A little while later, he asked her again. She said “I hid they key the other day.” Then she took him and showed him where she’d hidden it, behind their couch. “By the heater” she said, even though no one has ever told her there’s a heater there, or even what it is. Then she showed him how she’d hidden it, by throwing it with her arm.
Later, she was playing in Eb’s truck, and found a lightbulb. She held it over her head and said “I have an idea!”
On our way home, I asked if her wanted to be a Bee or Jesse for Halloween. She said “I want to be a Storm Trooper.” Where did that come from?!
While we were home eating dinner, she was playing with her rocket ship (a large cardboard box). She did her blastoff countdown from 10, pretended to go to Mars to see Martian Mickey, then came back to Earth. She got out of her ship and said “Mama, you’re happy to see me. I’m back on Earth.”
We caught her reading a book about Daddy animals and their babies to herself. For each page, she was narrating the pictures, saying “Daddy caterpillar and baby caterpillar. Daddy dog and baby dog.” It was so sweet!
She’s been asking me to spell words a lot lately, too. “Mama, how do you spell dog?” sort of things. She’s very interested in spelling right now. Surely a precursor to reading!
Before bed, she wanted to play doctor. She made me get on the scale, measured how tall I was, brushed my teeth, looked in my ears, listened to my heart, and pushed on my tummy. I love her imagination!
September 25, 2013
Elizabeth had her 2.5 year checkup this morning. She did SO great! Not a single tear was shed. She's matured so much since her last checkup in May. She is still quite tall and a perfect weight. She's brilliant. She's perfectly healthy, and we were told not to change anything.
For the Flu Vaccine, we had a choice of a shot and the nasal mist. I had promised Liz no shots, so I opeted for the nasal mist, not sure how she'd do. She did so well, sucking the mist into each nostril as instructed. Why do I ever doubt her?
She loves Monsters, Inc., so tonight we made Mike cookies. They were so much fun!
Elizabeth had her 2.5 year checkup this morning. She did SO great! Not a single tear was shed. She's matured so much since her last checkup in May. She is still quite tall and a perfect weight. She's brilliant. She's perfectly healthy, and we were told not to change anything.
For the Flu Vaccine, we had a choice of a shot and the nasal mist. I had promised Liz no shots, so I opeted for the nasal mist, not sure how she'd do. She did so well, sucking the mist into each nostril as instructed. Why do I ever doubt her?
She loves Monsters, Inc., so tonight we made Mike cookies. They were so much fun!
September 27, 2013
What a great drop-off at school this morning. No tears prior-to drop off. I can hear singing and playing through the wall as I sit and work. So glad that it's going well for her. I'm sure she'll still take a nap again, since noon is her normal nap time, but she's enjoying the time she is awake!
Here's a photo of her that was taken the second week of school. The teacher said she's the only one in the class that she can count on to give a smile when her photo is taken!
(That's not a booger in her nose. It was a piece of fuzz on the paper that I didn't realize was there until after I'd taken the photo.)
What a great drop-off at school this morning. No tears prior-to drop off. I can hear singing and playing through the wall as I sit and work. So glad that it's going well for her. I'm sure she'll still take a nap again, since noon is her normal nap time, but she's enjoying the time she is awake!
Here's a photo of her that was taken the second week of school. The teacher said she's the only one in the class that she can count on to give a smile when her photo is taken!
(That's not a booger in her nose. It was a piece of fuzz on the paper that I didn't realize was there until after I'd taken the photo.)
September 28, 2013
We brush our teeth at least 3 times a day. She really gets into it.
We brush our teeth at least 3 times a day. She really gets into it.
I love days like this. I had a haircut at 10:00, so Elizabeth and Daddy went to the bank and had breakfast together. Once my haircut was done at 10:45, she said she was sleepy. Rather than have her be sleepy at Gymboree, we went home and she was asleep by 11:15 – the same time Gymboree would have started.
After her nap, we went to Oktoberfest. As we got out of the car, the polka band was playing It’s a Small World. We saw Freddy Fever, and he finally signed her hat (along with 2 players.) We then danced Hokey Pokey with Freddy. We ate tenderloin and sauerkraut. Then we played games at the free booths, and she got a bracelet, a necklace, a snow cone and a balloon. We met a costumed rhino, which she loved. We had a caricature done of her. We shared a funnel cake. It was a great time!
After her nap, we went to Oktoberfest. As we got out of the car, the polka band was playing It’s a Small World. We saw Freddy Fever, and he finally signed her hat (along with 2 players.) We then danced Hokey Pokey with Freddy. We ate tenderloin and sauerkraut. Then we played games at the free booths, and she got a bracelet, a necklace, a snow cone and a balloon. We met a costumed rhino, which she loved. We had a caricature done of her. We shared a funnel cake. It was a great time!
Every year we have gone to Oktoberfest (since 2011), we always take a picture of Lizzy and Daddy together. Look how she’s grown!
September 29, 2013
Lizzy loves to write with a dry erase marker on glass. She was writing, and proudly told me "Mama, I wrote 1, 2, 3."
Skeptical of her claim, I took a look. She really did! That will teach me to doubt her.
Lizzy loves to write with a dry erase marker on glass. She was writing, and proudly told me "Mama, I wrote 1, 2, 3."
Skeptical of her claim, I took a look. She really did! That will teach me to doubt her.
October 1, 2013
Today Gee Gee took Lizzy to Pumpkin Time at a local nature preserve. Lizzy had fun walking through the pumpkins, listening to story time, and she got to take home a pumpkin to make.
Today Gee Gee took Lizzy to Pumpkin Time at a local nature preserve. Lizzy had fun walking through the pumpkins, listening to story time, and she got to take home a pumpkin to make.
In the evening, she wanted to lay in the sleeping bag on the living room floor and watch Mickey Mouse.
October 2, 2013
We had dinner at BD’s Mongolian BBQ (where my water had broken nearly 2.5 years ago!) for Lizzy’s first time there. SHE LOVED IT. Not only did she get to eat free (which is always a nice bonus) but she thoroughly enjoyed picking her food (and ours) and watching them cook it. She even rang the gong a few times, and giggled each time. What a fun night.
October 3, 2013
Silly girl never ceases to make us laugh. She had a banana peel over her owie on her knee. She said it was her "Banand-aid."
A combination of banana and Band Aid. Cutest thing ever!
October 4, 2013
School sent home her red painted plate from last week which we got to decorate like a ladybug.
We had dinner at BD’s Mongolian BBQ (where my water had broken nearly 2.5 years ago!) for Lizzy’s first time there. SHE LOVED IT. Not only did she get to eat free (which is always a nice bonus) but she thoroughly enjoyed picking her food (and ours) and watching them cook it. She even rang the gong a few times, and giggled each time. What a fun night.
October 3, 2013
Silly girl never ceases to make us laugh. She had a banana peel over her owie on her knee. She said it was her "Banand-aid."
A combination of banana and Band Aid. Cutest thing ever!
October 4, 2013
School sent home her red painted plate from last week which we got to decorate like a ladybug.
October 5, 2013
We had breakfast with Eb and Gee this morning, then headed to Gymboree. She had such a wonderful time this week, pretending to be a baby cow stuck in the mud. She was so engaged the entire hour and was just a delight to watch.
Before bed, we normally sing some songs. Imagine my surprise when she sang the ENTIRE Christopher Robin/Winnie the Pooh song, perfectly, start to finish. I’ll try to get her to do it on video sometime soon. It was so beautiful!
October 6, 2013
Elizabeth was coloring with some tiny little markers on one of those velvety-marker coloring pages. It was going really well. I looked away for less than a minute, and when I saw what had happened, I couldn't help but laugh.
We had breakfast with Eb and Gee this morning, then headed to Gymboree. She had such a wonderful time this week, pretending to be a baby cow stuck in the mud. She was so engaged the entire hour and was just a delight to watch.
Before bed, we normally sing some songs. Imagine my surprise when she sang the ENTIRE Christopher Robin/Winnie the Pooh song, perfectly, start to finish. I’ll try to get her to do it on video sometime soon. It was so beautiful!
October 6, 2013
Elizabeth was coloring with some tiny little markers on one of those velvety-marker coloring pages. It was going really well. I looked away for less than a minute, and when I saw what had happened, I couldn't help but laugh.
Right before bed, I coaxed her into singing the Winnie the Pooh song again. She did, but got an attack of hiccoughs mid-way through.
Winnie the Pooh part 1
WInnie the Pooh part 2
In case you don't know the words, here's what she's singing:
Deep in the Hundred Acre Wood
Where Christopher Robin plays
You'll find the enchanted neighborhood
Of Christopher's childhood days
A donkey named Eeyore is his friend
And Kanga and little Roo
(And Tigger too!)
There's Rabbit, and Piglet, and there's Owl
But most of all WInnie the Pooh
Winnie the Pooh...
(I'm sure you know the rest)
I had to stop the song there because she was hiccoughing too much!
October 7, 2013
Since a later-than-normal nap resulted in a different pickup location, Liz and I went to see Granny and Monica for a little bit. She was a little chatterbox, and let everyone touch her soft tummy.
Afterwards, we went home to catch Daddy just before he left for Chicago.
Before bed, she informed me that she no longer wants to be Darth Vader for Halloween. Now she wants to be a chocolate chip cookie. I'm sure she will change her mind again before Halloween, though, so I'm not ordering a cookie costume just yet!
October 9, 2013
Elizabeth loves marching bands in a serious way. She was beyond delighted when Eb and Gee took her to watch the marching band practice at the high school today. She even got her picture taken with a tuba (which she later told me was gold and shiny, like C3PO.)
Winnie the Pooh part 1
WInnie the Pooh part 2
In case you don't know the words, here's what she's singing:
Deep in the Hundred Acre Wood
Where Christopher Robin plays
You'll find the enchanted neighborhood
Of Christopher's childhood days
A donkey named Eeyore is his friend
And Kanga and little Roo
(And Tigger too!)
There's Rabbit, and Piglet, and there's Owl
But most of all WInnie the Pooh
Winnie the Pooh...
(I'm sure you know the rest)
I had to stop the song there because she was hiccoughing too much!
October 7, 2013
Since a later-than-normal nap resulted in a different pickup location, Liz and I went to see Granny and Monica for a little bit. She was a little chatterbox, and let everyone touch her soft tummy.
Afterwards, we went home to catch Daddy just before he left for Chicago.
Before bed, she informed me that she no longer wants to be Darth Vader for Halloween. Now she wants to be a chocolate chip cookie. I'm sure she will change her mind again before Halloween, though, so I'm not ordering a cookie costume just yet!
October 9, 2013
Elizabeth loves marching bands in a serious way. She was beyond delighted when Eb and Gee took her to watch the marching band practice at the high school today. She even got her picture taken with a tuba (which she later told me was gold and shiny, like C3PO.)
Then they went to the park. Those eyes...
There is no time as well spent as time with her. I hesitate to do anything, other than work, that involves me being away from her. Each moment is utterly precious and irreplaceable. Being apart from her causes me physical pain. I simply cannot get enough of her, such pure joy she brings.
October 12, 2013
We had grand plans today. I was scheduled to donate blood at 9:45. Afterwards, we were going to go to Gymboree, then to the library, then wherever else the day took us.
*Needle Scratch*
What’s that you say? After giving blood I’m going to throw up and pass out at the blood center? Okay, forget all of those other plans.
Elizabeth was such a sweetheart. After I was recovering from my incident at the blood center, laying on one of the chairs trying to get the room to stop spinning, she insisted on holding my hand for at least 15 minutes. Her soft, warm, tender hand in mine truly helped me feel better.
After I’d managed to keep a snack down and go the restroom, they let me go (guess I can’t donate blood anymore – it just doesn’t agree with me ). We decided to go ahead and try the library. About 15 steps after getting out of the car, it became very apparent that I wasn’t well. I told Tommy to go ahead and take Lizzy inside. She wouldn’t budge, insisting on sitting with me on the sidewalk while Daddy returned the books.
Once we got home, I needed to lay down. She lay with me for HOURS, keeping me warm. She even sang the “Christopher Robin” song to cheer me up and make me feel better.
This sweet girl is so compassionate and empathetic. How was I gifted with such an amazing 2 year old?
October 13, 2013
One year to the day since our last trip to Stoney Creek, it was time again to pick a pumpkin! First, however, we went to breakfast with Eb and Gee Gee. Photographer Elizabeth was at it again.
We had grand plans today. I was scheduled to donate blood at 9:45. Afterwards, we were going to go to Gymboree, then to the library, then wherever else the day took us.
*Needle Scratch*
What’s that you say? After giving blood I’m going to throw up and pass out at the blood center? Okay, forget all of those other plans.
Elizabeth was such a sweetheart. After I was recovering from my incident at the blood center, laying on one of the chairs trying to get the room to stop spinning, she insisted on holding my hand for at least 15 minutes. Her soft, warm, tender hand in mine truly helped me feel better.
After I’d managed to keep a snack down and go the restroom, they let me go (guess I can’t donate blood anymore – it just doesn’t agree with me ). We decided to go ahead and try the library. About 15 steps after getting out of the car, it became very apparent that I wasn’t well. I told Tommy to go ahead and take Lizzy inside. She wouldn’t budge, insisting on sitting with me on the sidewalk while Daddy returned the books.
Once we got home, I needed to lay down. She lay with me for HOURS, keeping me warm. She even sang the “Christopher Robin” song to cheer me up and make me feel better.
This sweet girl is so compassionate and empathetic. How was I gifted with such an amazing 2 year old?
October 13, 2013
One year to the day since our last trip to Stoney Creek, it was time again to pick a pumpkin! First, however, we went to breakfast with Eb and Gee Gee. Photographer Elizabeth was at it again.
After breakfast, we had an overwhelmingly fantastic time at the pumpkin patch. We wandered around the patch. We played on a tractor, raced ducks, fished, went through a straw maze (she kept saying “one more time”, going through it thrice until we ran out of tickets). It was an amazingly perfect day. Seeing the fun and joy in the world through her eyes gives all of us such abundant joy. She makes our hearts overflow, and that love spills over into every part of our lives. She truly makes our world a better place, and we are better people because of her.
My favorite photo, the "scared face."
One thing that strikes me about these photos is how “big” she looks. I don’t mean tall big. I mean not a baby anymore. She’s long since lost the baby-faced roundness. She’s her own little person, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I utterly adore her. There just aren’t words sometimes.
October 18, 2013
Today at school they had pumpkins brought in to make a pumpkin patch, and I got to go with Lizzy to pick one out. She has a little friend at school named Oliver, and they wanted to hold hands.
Today at school they had pumpkins brought in to make a pumpkin patch, and I got to go with Lizzy to pick one out. She has a little friend at school named Oliver, and they wanted to hold hands.
October 19, 2013
October 22, 2013
Eb and Gee took Lizzy to an antique shop today. She wanted to go down each aisle, investigating every item. Suddenly, at her eye level, she spotted a pristine Tigger costume, and immediately exclaimed “Put it on me! Zip it up!” She then proceeded to wear the costume throughout the store. Obviously, it was purchased for her.
Eb and Gee took Lizzy to an antique shop today. She wanted to go down each aisle, investigating every item. Suddenly, at her eye level, she spotted a pristine Tigger costume, and immediately exclaimed “Put it on me! Zip it up!” She then proceeded to wear the costume throughout the store. Obviously, it was purchased for her.
Before bed, she was talking to herself, saying “E A R S spells ears. S T O P spells stop. R 2 D 2 spells poop.”
October 25, 2013
The town of Fishers held its annual “Boo Bash” tonight, in which local businesses set up tents for a one-stop Trick-or-Treating experience. Once she put her costume on, she was having such fun “scaring” us. When we’d act surprised, she’d take off her mask and say “It’s only me!”
October 25, 2013
The town of Fishers held its annual “Boo Bash” tonight, in which local businesses set up tents for a one-stop Trick-or-Treating experience. Once she put her costume on, she was having such fun “scaring” us. When we’d act surprised, she’d take off her mask and say “It’s only me!”
She had SO MUCH FUN going to all the booths as Darth Vader. She spotted a guy dressed as R2D2 and we took their picture together. She got lots of candy and goodies, and kept saying “just one more.”
She spent the rest of the night, before bed, playing in my suitcase. She’d get in, make me zip her up, and then I’d have to pretend to be checking her in at the airport, putting the baggage on the scale, and then putting the bag on the plane. Then I’d have to shake the bag as though we were on the airplane. Once we arrive “in London” I’d unzip her, and she’d pop out saying “We made it!”
October 27, 2013
We went to Paradise (pair-da-eyes, as she says) Bakery for breakfast, and had a breakfast bagel together.
Then we headed to Dollar Tree for some things for our upcoming London trip. Afterwards, we headed to Gymboree, grabbed some lunch and took naps.
In the afternoon, we walked across the street for the neighborhood Halloween party, and she took part in the scavenger hunt! She loved finding the hidden objects and running them back to our team captain, telling him what she had found, and putting them in his bucket. She was so enthusiastic, and found dozens of hunt items. She was a major contributor to the team victory!
October 31, 2013
This morning the power was out, so Lizzy got to sleep until 8:00. Eb and Gee came around 8:15 to let me out of the garage so I could go to work. When they arrived, she said “You guys, the power is out!”
When we got home in the evening, the first thing she said is “The power is back on again!” I like how she remembers EVERYTHING that goes on, and does so without prompting.
November 1, 2013
I stayed with Lizzy in her classroom today to be the Mommy helper. She LOVED that, as you can imagine. I managed to surreptitiously snap this sweet photo while she was doing a painting craft.
We went to Paradise (pair-da-eyes, as she says) Bakery for breakfast, and had a breakfast bagel together.
Then we headed to Dollar Tree for some things for our upcoming London trip. Afterwards, we headed to Gymboree, grabbed some lunch and took naps.
In the afternoon, we walked across the street for the neighborhood Halloween party, and she took part in the scavenger hunt! She loved finding the hidden objects and running them back to our team captain, telling him what she had found, and putting them in his bucket. She was so enthusiastic, and found dozens of hunt items. She was a major contributor to the team victory!
October 31, 2013
This morning the power was out, so Lizzy got to sleep until 8:00. Eb and Gee came around 8:15 to let me out of the garage so I could go to work. When they arrived, she said “You guys, the power is out!”
When we got home in the evening, the first thing she said is “The power is back on again!” I like how she remembers EVERYTHING that goes on, and does so without prompting.
November 1, 2013
I stayed with Lizzy in her classroom today to be the Mommy helper. She LOVED that, as you can imagine. I managed to surreptitiously snap this sweet photo while she was doing a painting craft.
We also received her school pictures that were taken a few weeks ago. She is so beautiful.
After school, we headed to Eb and Gee’s for a big, fun weekend. She had a nice long nap, and then when she awoke, it was time for Trick or Treating. She got dressed as Darth Vader, and into the wagon she went!
After visiting a neighbor, we went down to downtown Markleville’s “Trunk or Treat” Halloween event. She played a few games, and spotted a Storm Trooper.
Then, we headed to Pendleton to visit and Trick or Treat with Granny and Monica.
As we were almost back to Eb and Gee’s, she spotted hayrides that the town was doing. She said, with utmost certainty, “I want to go on a hayride. Eb, let’s go on a hayride.” So, Eb turned the truck around, parked it, and on a hayride we went. She LOVED it!
As we were almost back to Eb and Gee’s, she spotted hayrides that the town was doing. She said, with utmost certainty, “I want to go on a hayride. Eb, let’s go on a hayride.” So, Eb turned the truck around, parked it, and on a hayride we went. She LOVED it!
November 2, 2013
Eb and Gee got to go to Gymboree today, and she was so excited to have them there. Eb also bought her a Busy Board, which she adored and played with the entire drive home, and for most of the rest of that day.
November 3, 2013
What a fun Lizzy day! We had plans to go back to the Muncie Children’s Museum, where we had such tremendous fun back in April. However, since the museum didn’t open until 1:00, we planned a fun lunch at Chuck E Cheese first. She had never done anything like that, and had a wonderful time. She ate salad and pizza, danced with Chuck E twice, and played and played and played. It was wonderful!
Afterwards, we got to the museum right as they opened. For the first 20 minutes or so, we were the only ones there, and had the place to ourselves! She played and explored until she was so tired she was starting to get stumbly. We finally had to scoop her up to get her to go, and she fell asleep in the truck on the way home.
Eb and Gee got to go to Gymboree today, and she was so excited to have them there. Eb also bought her a Busy Board, which she adored and played with the entire drive home, and for most of the rest of that day.
November 3, 2013
What a fun Lizzy day! We had plans to go back to the Muncie Children’s Museum, where we had such tremendous fun back in April. However, since the museum didn’t open until 1:00, we planned a fun lunch at Chuck E Cheese first. She had never done anything like that, and had a wonderful time. She ate salad and pizza, danced with Chuck E twice, and played and played and played. It was wonderful!
Afterwards, we got to the museum right as they opened. For the first 20 minutes or so, we were the only ones there, and had the place to ourselves! She played and explored until she was so tired she was starting to get stumbly. We finally had to scoop her up to get her to go, and she fell asleep in the truck on the way home.
She has the most beautiful profile.
November 5, 2013
Since Daddy is still gone, it’s was a Mommy and Lizzy “date night.” We had Mexican for dinner, and since Lizzy loves guacamole, she ate nearly half of it by herself!
Since Daddy is still gone, it’s was a Mommy and Lizzy “date night.” We had Mexican for dinner, and since Lizzy loves guacamole, she ate nearly half of it by herself!