I know of one person so far who has preserved their blog into a book format. Did you know there is a company out there who can do that for you??
Bloggled.com will soon be offering a "Blog to Book" feature to allow you to bind all your entries together in a book format. You can even add pictures along with your entries.
Sign up for their free service to backup your blog and they'll let you know when this awesome service will be available.
Daisypath Vacation tickers
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
A birthday to remember
We had a really good day for Little Man's 2nd Birthday.
First, we headed out at 7:15am toward Baltimore to visit Santa at B&O Railroad. Although the breakfast was a little lackluster, all that mattered was Little Man A was so excited about seeing all the trains again. We even got a really good picture of us with Santa.
After hanging out with Santa, we were able to venture around the museum. Local model train clubs were displaying amazingly detailed layouts of construction sites, zoos, ice skating by city hall, and an amusement park. Little Man was in heaven when he spotted the firetruck at the back of a train car.
Then we boarded a train for a short mile long ride out from the museum. Another quick visit by Santa on board and we were back to touring the museum. A volunteer who knew an astounding amount of information about trains was nice enough to catch this photo.
Unfortunately for Little Man A, we couldn't stay all day as we needed to return Gramma and Pop-pop's rental car to the airport and get ready for a train birthday party. I thought Little Man could stay awake until we got home in time for lunch, but he fell fast asleep about 5 minutes out. Fortunately, he was able to sleep for an hour and a half because he was wide awake and ready for the second half of the day as soon as we stopped in the driveway.
While Pop-pop worked on making homemade pizzas, Daddy was busy hanging decorations, Mommy was putting goodie bags together with fun magnet frame kits (that I wasn't brave enough to have the kids put together with glue at my house), Gramma was busy designing this masterpiece.
Yes, that is cupcake train cake. With twizzlers, tootsie rolls, m&m's, and sprinkles. All a parents' worse nightmare at 6:30pm.
Little Man was right at home with all the train decorations. I tried to put out a few small trains on the table for decoration, but Little Man didn't recognize them so they needed to be played with.
When we started to open gifts, I was about to grab his Tigger chair, but Gramma had a different idea.
The bottom cushion folds up and it's equipped with a throttle to make "chugga-chugga" sounds and make the wheels on the bottom go round and round, a train whistle, and Thomas' theme song. As Little Man opened each present, he was less and less interested in opening more presents. Especially when he received a bulldozer, a loader, and a tractor book with wheels. It's a good thing because the other kids were more interested in opening the gifts for themselves.
After everyone cleared out, Gramma brought out her gifts and we were able to have some quiet time with Little Man.
All in all it was a good day. I hope Little Man had a good day too.
First, we headed out at 7:15am toward Baltimore to visit Santa at B&O Railroad. Although the breakfast was a little lackluster, all that mattered was Little Man A was so excited about seeing all the trains again. We even got a really good picture of us with Santa.
After hanging out with Santa, we were able to venture around the museum. Local model train clubs were displaying amazingly detailed layouts of construction sites, zoos, ice skating by city hall, and an amusement park. Little Man was in heaven when he spotted the firetruck at the back of a train car.
Then we boarded a train for a short mile long ride out from the museum. Another quick visit by Santa on board and we were back to touring the museum. A volunteer who knew an astounding amount of information about trains was nice enough to catch this photo.
Unfortunately for Little Man A, we couldn't stay all day as we needed to return Gramma and Pop-pop's rental car to the airport and get ready for a train birthday party. I thought Little Man could stay awake until we got home in time for lunch, but he fell fast asleep about 5 minutes out. Fortunately, he was able to sleep for an hour and a half because he was wide awake and ready for the second half of the day as soon as we stopped in the driveway.
While Pop-pop worked on making homemade pizzas, Daddy was busy hanging decorations, Mommy was putting goodie bags together with fun magnet frame kits (that I wasn't brave enough to have the kids put together with glue at my house), Gramma was busy designing this masterpiece.
Yes, that is cupcake train cake. With twizzlers, tootsie rolls, m&m's, and sprinkles. All a parents' worse nightmare at 6:30pm.
Little Man was right at home with all the train decorations. I tried to put out a few small trains on the table for decoration, but Little Man didn't recognize them so they needed to be played with.
When we started to open gifts, I was about to grab his Tigger chair, but Gramma had a different idea.
The bottom cushion folds up and it's equipped with a throttle to make "chugga-chugga" sounds and make the wheels on the bottom go round and round, a train whistle, and Thomas' theme song. As Little Man opened each present, he was less and less interested in opening more presents. Especially when he received a bulldozer, a loader, and a tractor book with wheels. It's a good thing because the other kids were more interested in opening the gifts for themselves.
After everyone cleared out, Gramma brought out her gifts and we were able to have some quiet time with Little Man.
All in all it was a good day. I hope Little Man had a good day too.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Happy Birthday, baby!
Happy Birthday to you.
Happy Birthday dear Little Man,
Happy Birthday to You!
Happy 2nd Birthday Little Man!
P.S. Thanks to Uncle Carl for some great portraits! (psst - TRUCKS!)
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Playdate Contract
For those of you who are involved in playdates, here is a "Standard Contract for Playdate Services". I haven't had these experiences yet, but I'm sure some of you might have in the past.
(You can click on the image for a larger viewing.)
(You can click on the image for a larger viewing.)
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Christmas gift ideas
Part of Cookie magazine's Top 100 list was an idea of what to get the parent who has everything therefore their kids have everything. These books are coffee table worthy titles that kids will enjoy as well, in order of age. Check them out.
Newborn: The First Picture Book, by Edward Steichen and John Updike (Fotofolio)
Ages 1-2: The New Alphabet of Animals, by Christopher Wormell (Running Press)
Ages 2-4: I Am a Little Giraffe, by Francois Crozat (Barron's)
Ages 4-6: Martin Pebble, by Jacques Sempe (Phaidon)
Ages 4 & Up: A Balloon for a Blunderbuss, by Alastair Reid and Bob Gill (Phaidon)
All of these books can be found at Amazon.com or even half.com, but there may be limited availability.
Newborn: The First Picture Book, by Edward Steichen and John Updike (Fotofolio)
Ages 1-2: The New Alphabet of Animals, by Christopher Wormell (Running Press)
Ages 2-4: I Am a Little Giraffe, by Francois Crozat (Barron's)
Ages 4-6: Martin Pebble, by Jacques Sempe (Phaidon)
Ages 4 & Up: A Balloon for a Blunderbuss, by Alastair Reid and Bob Gill (Phaidon)
All of these books can be found at Amazon.com or even half.com, but there may be limited availability.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Reality sets in
I can't believe in less than 5 days my baby will be two years old. Where has this past year gone?? It seems like just last week we were having his first birthday party. Now we get to do it all over again.
This year, no surprise, is going to be about trains.
This year, no surprise, is going to be about trains.
Monday, December 8, 2008
A new perspective
Although I've had similar circumstances lately with Little Man A, sometimes I just can't find the right words to express how I'm feeling. I thought Elsa Fluss, an IT Support Coordinator and a MOPS mom, did a pretty good job of getting to the point, especially with the holiday season upon us now.
A Child's Perspective
"This morning we woke up to our first snow of the year. A thin blanket of white covered the strawberry plant outside the living room window. When we got downstairs for breakfast, my daughters were so enthralled and surprised by the snow that they didn’t immediately run into the kitchen to help me pour their cereal. I stopped for a moment to remember that when life gives me lemons, my daughters are sweet enough to turn it into lemonade.
A few months ago, my car broke as I was driving to the daycare to pick up my daughters. As the shimmying and shaking grew worse, I grew more concerned about how much it would cost to fix it and how we would get by with just one car while it was in the shop. I warned my girls about the car and told them we were going to go to the car shop instead of going home. When I started driving, they both squealed in joy and excitement, and my four-year-old called it a rollercoaster ride. This little bit of perspective helped calm my fears and reminded me to take a breath and relax.
The recent time change now means that it’s dark out when I get to the daycare in the evening. To me, this usually means that I have spent another day working inside, and that I haven’t seen the sun since my morning eastward commute. But to my daughters, it means that they get to see the moon during our drive home. They talk to the moon, comment on what shape it is, and strive to see it on their side of the car. Because of their ability to find joy in things as common as the moon, I am no longer annoyed that the days are so short and that I have to spend them inside. Instead, I am reminded that there is just as much beauty in the night sky as there is during the day.
This holiday season, I want to remember to search out the joy in mundane circumstances and find perspective within my fears."
"This morning we woke up to our first snow of the year. A thin blanket of white covered the strawberry plant outside the living room window. When we got downstairs for breakfast, my daughters were so enthralled and surprised by the snow that they didn’t immediately run into the kitchen to help me pour their cereal. I stopped for a moment to remember that when life gives me lemons, my daughters are sweet enough to turn it into lemonade.
A few months ago, my car broke as I was driving to the daycare to pick up my daughters. As the shimmying and shaking grew worse, I grew more concerned about how much it would cost to fix it and how we would get by with just one car while it was in the shop. I warned my girls about the car and told them we were going to go to the car shop instead of going home. When I started driving, they both squealed in joy and excitement, and my four-year-old called it a rollercoaster ride. This little bit of perspective helped calm my fears and reminded me to take a breath and relax.
The recent time change now means that it’s dark out when I get to the daycare in the evening. To me, this usually means that I have spent another day working inside, and that I haven’t seen the sun since my morning eastward commute. But to my daughters, it means that they get to see the moon during our drive home. They talk to the moon, comment on what shape it is, and strive to see it on their side of the car. Because of their ability to find joy in things as common as the moon, I am no longer annoyed that the days are so short and that I have to spend them inside. Instead, I am reminded that there is just as much beauty in the night sky as there is during the day.
This holiday season, I want to remember to search out the joy in mundane circumstances and find perspective within my fears."
Friday, December 5, 2008
Quote of the day
(Anonymous)
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Step 1: Conquer your fears. Check!
Today, Little Man tackled his worst fear.
The Potty.
Apparently, while I was out grocery shopping (of course when I was not here), Little Man A peed on the potty!!
We've been putting the potty seat in the tub since that's where he likes to go while taking a bath. He's started to sit on the potty, but then immediately starts chanting, "No, no, no." Tonight, Daddy did the same thing and when Little Man started to pee in the water, he immediately picked him up and sat him on the potty. Of course, Little Man started his chant, but then Daddy started lightly splashing water on him. Next thing he knew, he was peeing in the potty!
Daddy threw a little party and danced around the bathroom while Little Man couldn't believe he actually just peed in the potty.
I know I shouldn't be overly excited about it. As my good friend just informed me, don't get your hopes up early. These little buggers go at their own pace. I know, but I can help but get excited about his new accomplishment.
We'll see how next year goes.
The Potty.
Apparently, while I was out grocery shopping (of course when I was not here), Little Man A peed on the potty!!
We've been putting the potty seat in the tub since that's where he likes to go while taking a bath. He's started to sit on the potty, but then immediately starts chanting, "No, no, no." Tonight, Daddy did the same thing and when Little Man started to pee in the water, he immediately picked him up and sat him on the potty. Of course, Little Man started his chant, but then Daddy started lightly splashing water on him. Next thing he knew, he was peeing in the potty!
Daddy threw a little party and danced around the bathroom while Little Man couldn't believe he actually just peed in the potty.
I know I shouldn't be overly excited about it. As my good friend just informed me, don't get your hopes up early. These little buggers go at their own pace. I know, but I can help but get excited about his new accomplishment.
We'll see how next year goes.
Kids say the darndest things
Although this little girl speaks her imaginative story in french, there are english sub-titles. It's well worth the four minutes.
Enjoy the show!
Once upon a time... from Capucha on Vimeo.
Enjoy the show!
Once upon a time... from Capucha on Vimeo.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
10 Things I Learned over Thanksgiving weekend
1. Never travel the day before Thanksgiving. We decided to try our luck at driving at night. Apparently, so did the rest of Virginia, D.C., Delaware, New Jersey, and New York.
2. A reclined car seat is best to prevent baby wiplash. It was bumper to bumper traffic about 10 miles before crossing into Delaware, then stop and go in Delaware .... which is about the time that Little Man woke up.
3. No matter how far you travel, it's always worth it to spend time with family. Although it took us 6 hours to drive a trip that normally would take 4-1/2 hours, it was all worth it to see family.
4. Nothing like a little fresh air to get your juices flowing. Needless to say, Little Man wasn't having the sit around all day and watch football thing. So thankfully, we were able to go to the park across the street and the library.
5. When in doubt, say "TRUCK". You had to be there.
6. Leftovers are always better the second time around. Okay, so this one I already knew, but they are.
7. Toddlers will always find something to do, even if it means "bunking" down the stairs.
8. After Thanksgiving sales are not worth waking up at 4am. I could not believe some of the stops stores were pulling to bring people in. Our local mall was opening at midnight the day before Thanksgiving and Kohl's opened at 4am on Black Friday. I heard one store was offering an additional 10% off if you came in your pajamas. I say wait until Cyber Monday to do your shopping in your pajamas in the comfort of your home.
9. You definitely learn from your mistakes. For our return trip back we made sure to have more toys, more books, more imagination, and a reclined car seat. Little Man slept the entire way back home and managed to get back to sleep in a matter of minutes once back in his own bed. The pure miracle was him sleeping in until 8am!
10. You always have more to be thankful for than you think.
2. A reclined car seat is best to prevent baby wiplash. It was bumper to bumper traffic about 10 miles before crossing into Delaware, then stop and go in Delaware .... which is about the time that Little Man woke up.
3. No matter how far you travel, it's always worth it to spend time with family. Although it took us 6 hours to drive a trip that normally would take 4-1/2 hours, it was all worth it to see family.
4. Nothing like a little fresh air to get your juices flowing. Needless to say, Little Man wasn't having the sit around all day and watch football thing. So thankfully, we were able to go to the park across the street and the library.
5. When in doubt, say "TRUCK". You had to be there.
6. Leftovers are always better the second time around. Okay, so this one I already knew, but they are.
7. Toddlers will always find something to do, even if it means "bunking" down the stairs.
8. After Thanksgiving sales are not worth waking up at 4am. I could not believe some of the stops stores were pulling to bring people in. Our local mall was opening at midnight the day before Thanksgiving and Kohl's opened at 4am on Black Friday. I heard one store was offering an additional 10% off if you came in your pajamas. I say wait until Cyber Monday to do your shopping in your pajamas in the comfort of your home.
9. You definitely learn from your mistakes. For our return trip back we made sure to have more toys, more books, more imagination, and a reclined car seat. Little Man slept the entire way back home and managed to get back to sleep in a matter of minutes once back in his own bed. The pure miracle was him sleeping in until 8am!
10. You always have more to be thankful for than you think.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Little Man A - Age 2
Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends. More on our adventures later. Right now I want to share the video that Aunt Wenderina put together about Little Man A. Makes me cry every time.
Thanks Wenderina!
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Money savvy
Ever wonder if you are paying too much money for your cell phone plan or your internet access? Apprently, there is a website out there, Billshrink.com that can analyze your bills to find the best plans for you.
I haven't checked it out yet myself, but I thought it was too cool of an idea not to share.
Oh, and speaking about money. Has anyone seen the gas prices in the D.C. area lately?? Around the corner we are down to $1.59 per gallon for gas! Kick ass!
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Potty humor
We've been trying for awhile now to get Little Man interested in using the potty. As any parent can tell you (except for my beloved friend "C" who's child announced to her one day "No more diapers, mommy!") potty training is definitely a chore. It's something you have to work at before finally accepting.
He definitely knows when he's going. Sometimes he even announces it after the fact. Then we turn around and say, "Thank you for telling Mommy you went potty." What else am I suppose to do? I don't want him to think that I'm ignoring him and obviously I want him to tell me before hand in the future.
A few weeks ago, I thought I would try another indirect route. Books. When we went to the library I found a few potty books that would hopefully peak Little Man's interest. If you know him and his books, he took to those new books like glue. For a couple days, actually practically every day since I brought the books home, he's been wanting to read them. Over and over again.
In one particular book, No more diapers for Ducky, they show a little blue potty chair. Nothing fancy. This little chair though, Little Man points out every time. So when I saw a little blue potty chair during our family's Sunday morning outing to IKEA last week, I had to buy it in hopes that Little Man would quickly catch on.
Instead, he's carrying it around the house.
Pushing it across the kitchen floor. Yelling, "Pa-tee!" He stops every once in awhile to sit on it, but no potty in the chair yet.
Maybe after he turns two all things will be different. Yeah, they'll be different all right. Like the temper tantrums will be more fierce. Just kidding - I hope.
He definitely knows when he's going. Sometimes he even announces it after the fact. Then we turn around and say, "Thank you for telling Mommy you went potty." What else am I suppose to do? I don't want him to think that I'm ignoring him and obviously I want him to tell me before hand in the future.
A few weeks ago, I thought I would try another indirect route. Books. When we went to the library I found a few potty books that would hopefully peak Little Man's interest. If you know him and his books, he took to those new books like glue. For a couple days, actually practically every day since I brought the books home, he's been wanting to read them. Over and over again.
In one particular book, No more diapers for Ducky, they show a little blue potty chair. Nothing fancy. This little chair though, Little Man points out every time. So when I saw a little blue potty chair during our family's Sunday morning outing to IKEA last week, I had to buy it in hopes that Little Man would quickly catch on.
Instead, he's carrying it around the house.
Pushing it across the kitchen floor. Yelling, "Pa-tee!" He stops every once in awhile to sit on it, but no potty in the chair yet.
Maybe after he turns two all things will be different. Yeah, they'll be different all right. Like the temper tantrums will be more fierce. Just kidding - I hope.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Ouchy!
I know, it's been awhile. I have very good reasons, believe me.
The first being I have had cold/upper-yucky-respiratory-not-quite-an-infection problem for the past almost three weeks now. Heaven forbid I actually get some sleep while I'm sick. Big Daddy and I slept in separate beds for an entire week just so at least one of us could get some sleep. Fortunately, when I went to the doctor almost 2 weeks ago now, she prescribed cough medicine with codeine. No more coughing for me at night! Yippee!
The second reason being these. I enter exhibit A:
My top two wisdom teeth. Yes, I am a freak and asked to keep them. (That's the scientist in me, sorry. When I got my gall bladder out I would have asked for that too, but I know doctors are a little weird about giving back body parts.) Fortunately, I only had my top two wisdom teeth - either the bottom never came in or they never will. I like to think I am part of the evolutionary process of ridding such unnecessary body parts for our future generations to come. Hence the removal of my gallbladder, tonsils, and adenoids. Don't need 'em.
I was absolutely petrified to have my teeth removed. My top left had bothered me in the past by rubbing on the inside of my cheek, but then it would dissipate after a week or so. This time around, I could barely open my mouth wide enough to brush my teeth. Needless to say, I couldn't wait any longer. The dental office had originally given me a treatment plan that would remove one tooth at a time, but after a brief thought decided to get it all over with at once, especially with the holiday/birthday season approaching.
After I waited more than 20 minutes for the novocain to "take effect" (it doesn't take that long), the doctor came back and within 2 minutes the tooth was out! I've removed teeth in cats and dogs before, so I knew the "drill" (hehe no pun intended), but that's exactly what I was afraid would happen. I've heard horror stories where the doctor needed to break the tooth and, according the many people, would have me bed ridden with dry sockets for weeks.
Apparently, the doctor didn't get the message that I wanted BOTH wisdom teeth removed. As he was washing up, I said, "Aren't you going to take out the other one?" He replied, "Huh. You wanted both out today? It's almost 5 o'clock." He thankfully was just a good sport and decided he wanted to make the practice a little extra money that day. He had only applied novocain to the left one, so we needed to wait again for it to set in for the right one. This is when you learn it really only needs 3-5 minutes to take effect. Exactly the same as the first, it took the doctor no more than 2 minutes to pry the tooth out.
What a relief to finally have that over with, but now I needed to worry about post-op care. Being a vet tech and OCPD, I made sure to follow their instructions to the letter. Thankfully, I can report that I had no difficulties at all during recovery. Big Daddy was able to take a couple days off though, just to make sure.
And third, thank you to all you out there sending me new client mojo. I accepted a new client last week. Just in time for the holiday season. Unfortunately, the Vicadin and Tylenol with codeine didn't quite enable me to do much work, but I'll be up and running this week for sure.
Stick around. There's more to come this week from A's Mom.
TTFN!
The first being I have had cold/upper-yucky-respiratory-not-quite-an-infection problem for the past almost three weeks now. Heaven forbid I actually get some sleep while I'm sick. Big Daddy and I slept in separate beds for an entire week just so at least one of us could get some sleep. Fortunately, when I went to the doctor almost 2 weeks ago now, she prescribed cough medicine with codeine. No more coughing for me at night! Yippee!
The second reason being these. I enter exhibit A:
My top two wisdom teeth. Yes, I am a freak and asked to keep them. (That's the scientist in me, sorry. When I got my gall bladder out I would have asked for that too, but I know doctors are a little weird about giving back body parts.) Fortunately, I only had my top two wisdom teeth - either the bottom never came in or they never will. I like to think I am part of the evolutionary process of ridding such unnecessary body parts for our future generations to come. Hence the removal of my gallbladder, tonsils, and adenoids. Don't need 'em.I was absolutely petrified to have my teeth removed. My top left had bothered me in the past by rubbing on the inside of my cheek, but then it would dissipate after a week or so. This time around, I could barely open my mouth wide enough to brush my teeth. Needless to say, I couldn't wait any longer. The dental office had originally given me a treatment plan that would remove one tooth at a time, but after a brief thought decided to get it all over with at once, especially with the holiday/birthday season approaching.
After I waited more than 20 minutes for the novocain to "take effect" (it doesn't take that long), the doctor came back and within 2 minutes the tooth was out! I've removed teeth in cats and dogs before, so I knew the "drill" (hehe no pun intended), but that's exactly what I was afraid would happen. I've heard horror stories where the doctor needed to break the tooth and, according the many people, would have me bed ridden with dry sockets for weeks.
Apparently, the doctor didn't get the message that I wanted BOTH wisdom teeth removed. As he was washing up, I said, "Aren't you going to take out the other one?" He replied, "Huh. You wanted both out today? It's almost 5 o'clock." He thankfully was just a good sport and decided he wanted to make the practice a little extra money that day. He had only applied novocain to the left one, so we needed to wait again for it to set in for the right one. This is when you learn it really only needs 3-5 minutes to take effect. Exactly the same as the first, it took the doctor no more than 2 minutes to pry the tooth out.
What a relief to finally have that over with, but now I needed to worry about post-op care. Being a vet tech and OCPD, I made sure to follow their instructions to the letter. Thankfully, I can report that I had no difficulties at all during recovery. Big Daddy was able to take a couple days off though, just to make sure.
And third, thank you to all you out there sending me new client mojo. I accepted a new client last week. Just in time for the holiday season. Unfortunately, the Vicadin and Tylenol with codeine didn't quite enable me to do much work, but I'll be up and running this week for sure.
Stick around. There's more to come this week from A's Mom.
TTFN!
Monday, November 17, 2008
Gotta have manners
Yesterday we decided to venture out to Borders Bookstore to look for some Christmas presents... and just to get out of the house. Little Man was in a Bob the Builder mood, so we hurried back to the children's section to discover no Bob the Builder books. Instead, we found tractor and truck books. This made Little Man happy too.
Big Daddy and Little Man settled down near a small children's table to read the books we had found. I wandered away to find some Christmas presents. No more than 2 minutes later I hear the distinct sound of my child screaming. Since I wasn't too far away I peaked around the bookshelves to see Big Daddy trying to console Little Man.
When I asked what happened, Big Daddy informed me that a little girl about the age of 4 or 5 came barreling over and made herself comfortable at their table. She then took over ALL the books Little Man was eye balling over!
I wanted to go to the child andbeat the living daylights out of her steal back the books she had stolen, but instead we tried to go back to the original location of the truck books and find another. Little Man wasn't falling for it, he wanted those books!
Eventually, the littledevil girl ended up leaving the table and the books behind. So Big Daddy and Little Man tried again. I did the same. No more than 1 minute later, the little shit comes back! This time Little Man was prepared. "Share. Share. Share." Was all he said to this big bully. Her reply, "I am sharing." Thankfully, this time Big Daddy stood up for him as well.
What is it with children nowadays? Don't they learn manners anymore from their parents?? Her parents were no where to be found, just let her off to terrorize my child do as she pleases. Apparently, children's behaviors are a mirror image for their parents. I think those parents need to go back to kindergarten and learn how to share. And while they are at it, learn about putting things back where they belong as well.
Big Daddy and Little Man settled down near a small children's table to read the books we had found. I wandered away to find some Christmas presents. No more than 2 minutes later I hear the distinct sound of my child screaming. Since I wasn't too far away I peaked around the bookshelves to see Big Daddy trying to console Little Man.
When I asked what happened, Big Daddy informed me that a little girl about the age of 4 or 5 came barreling over and made herself comfortable at their table. She then took over ALL the books Little Man was eye balling over!
I wanted to go to the child and
Eventually, the little
What is it with children nowadays? Don't they learn manners anymore from their parents?? Her parents were no where to be found, just let her off to
Friday, November 14, 2008
Quote of the Day
If you give her sperm, she'll give you a baby.
If you give her a house, she'll give you a home.
If you give her groceries, she'll give you a meal.
If you give her a smile, she'll give you her heart.
She multiplies and enlarges what is given to her.
So, if you give her any crap, be ready to receive a ton of shit.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Bed Pocket
For those of you who travel and are paranoid about the cleanliness of hotel beds, there's the "Travel Sleep Sack".
Need I say more??
Need I say more??
Monday, November 10, 2008
Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder Genetically Linked
**This is in no way a true and accurate study done by the scientific community. This is just what we have experienced.**
In a recent study conducted by A's Mom and Big Daddy, they have confirmed that Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder, OCPD, is genetically passed onto offspring. It was a long and tedious study involving many hours of observation (approximately 16,560 hours or 23 months), but it is without a doubt linked.
Until recent clarification, A's Mom was thought to have had Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, a chronic anxiety disorder most commonly characterized by obsessive, distressing, intrusive thoughts and related compulsions. The phrase "obsessive-compulsive" has become a mockery in the English language, and is often used in an informal or caricatured manner to describe someone who is meticulous, perfectionistic, absorbed in a cause, or otherwise fixated on something or someone. Although these signs are often present in OCD, a person who exhibits them does not necessarily have OCD, and may instead have obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) or some other condition. However, Wikipedia cleared things up.
Big Daddy recently caught A's Mom exhibiting her own signs of OCPD by arranging her trail mix to include the same proportion of raisins, peanuts, and butterscotch pieces into individual piles prior to consuming them.
Little Man A was thought to have exhibited OCPD when he would place the step stool in front of the toilet just so. Or when he would line up his trucks side by side in perfect alignment. They could not be certain that these signs were significant evidence. However, today's observations confirmed Little Man A did have OCPD.
While at IKEA during their morning brunch (the small breakfast was free again this weekend for Veteran's Day. If you're not signed up to receive their emails you really should.), Little Man was engaged in his normal behavior of playing with the train set (even though he has his own at home now) when A's Mom and Big Daddy announced it was time to proceed to the check-out area downstairs. When Little Man A passed by a shelf of piggy banks, he noticed they were rather "haphazard". Little Man A proceeded to place all the piggy banks upright and position them facing forward. (I shit you not.)
More observations will be occurring over the next several months to years, but A's Mom and Big Daddy are pretty sure they have a perfectionist on their hands. Please cross your fingers for them that they will be able to make it safely through the next 16 years.
For more, true information regarding Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder, visit www.oh-my-god-this-is-my-life.com/
**Like Wikipedia previously stated, this was indeed a "mockery" of the true meaning of OCD/OCPD.**
In a recent study conducted by A's Mom and Big Daddy, they have confirmed that Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder, OCPD, is genetically passed onto offspring. It was a long and tedious study involving many hours of observation (approximately 16,560 hours or 23 months), but it is without a doubt linked.
Until recent clarification, A's Mom was thought to have had Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, a chronic anxiety disorder most commonly characterized by obsessive, distressing, intrusive thoughts and related compulsions. The phrase "obsessive-compulsive" has become a mockery in the English language, and is often used in an informal or caricatured manner to describe someone who is meticulous, perfectionistic, absorbed in a cause, or otherwise fixated on something or someone. Although these signs are often present in OCD, a person who exhibits them does not necessarily have OCD, and may instead have obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) or some other condition. However, Wikipedia cleared things up.
Big Daddy recently caught A's Mom exhibiting her own signs of OCPD by arranging her trail mix to include the same proportion of raisins, peanuts, and butterscotch pieces into individual piles prior to consuming them.
Little Man A was thought to have exhibited OCPD when he would place the step stool in front of the toilet just so. Or when he would line up his trucks side by side in perfect alignment. They could not be certain that these signs were significant evidence. However, today's observations confirmed Little Man A did have OCPD.
While at IKEA during their morning brunch (the small breakfast was free again this weekend for Veteran's Day. If you're not signed up to receive their emails you really should.), Little Man was engaged in his normal behavior of playing with the train set (even though he has his own at home now) when A's Mom and Big Daddy announced it was time to proceed to the check-out area downstairs. When Little Man A passed by a shelf of piggy banks, he noticed they were rather "haphazard". Little Man A proceeded to place all the piggy banks upright and position them facing forward. (I shit you not.)
More observations will be occurring over the next several months to years, but A's Mom and Big Daddy are pretty sure they have a perfectionist on their hands. Please cross your fingers for them that they will be able to make it safely through the next 16 years.
For more, true information regarding Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder, visit www.oh-my-god-this-is-my-life.com/
**Like Wikipedia previously stated, this was indeed a "mockery" of the true meaning of OCD/OCPD.**
Friday, November 7, 2008
A Healthier Life for Everyone
I heard about this company in the Cookie parent's magazine (yes, even though it's showcases upper-class apparel for kids and adults alike, they do have some good points). Shaklee Corporation, has been leading the way in natural health products and sustainable business practices for 50 years.
Founded in 1956 by Dr. Forrest C. Shaklee, he first created "Vitalized Minerals," one of the first multivitamins in the world. Shaklee scientists searched the world for the finest natural ingredients. They conduct over 350 tests on every single new ingredient for heavy metals, pesticides, or any of hundreds of other harmful contaminants. Then over 80,000 quality tests annually to guarantee the purity and safety of each and every product. They guarantee every Shaklee product is 100% safe to use. Their website includes some disturbing information about toxins, chemicals, and poison exposures at home.
The product that Cookie magazine showcased was the Basic H2 Organic Super Cleaning Concentrate. For only $12.15 (plus tax and shipping) one 16 ounce bottle yields 48 GALLONS of cleaning solution for use on anything from the high chair to the stove top.
With purchasing Shaklee's Get Clean Special Edition kit versus conventional ready-to-use cleaners, you can eliminate 248 pounds of Greenhouse gases. With the purchase of one Get Clean Starter Kit, you can keep 108 pounds of packaging waste out of landfills. And if that's not enough, you can save close to $3400 to get the same amount of product at the grocery store by purchasing their Get Clean Starter Kit.
I don't know about you, but that's a good deal for your health, your pocket book, and for the environment. Check them out: Shaklee Corporation.
Founded in 1956 by Dr. Forrest C. Shaklee, he first created "Vitalized Minerals," one of the first multivitamins in the world. Shaklee scientists searched the world for the finest natural ingredients. They conduct over 350 tests on every single new ingredient for heavy metals, pesticides, or any of hundreds of other harmful contaminants. Then over 80,000 quality tests annually to guarantee the purity and safety of each and every product. They guarantee every Shaklee product is 100% safe to use. Their website includes some disturbing information about toxins, chemicals, and poison exposures at home.
The product that Cookie magazine showcased was the Basic H2 Organic Super Cleaning Concentrate. For only $12.15 (plus tax and shipping) one 16 ounce bottle yields 48 GALLONS of cleaning solution for use on anything from the high chair to the stove top.
With purchasing Shaklee's Get Clean Special Edition kit versus conventional ready-to-use cleaners, you can eliminate 248 pounds of Greenhouse gases. With the purchase of one Get Clean Starter Kit, you can keep 108 pounds of packaging waste out of landfills. And if that's not enough, you can save close to $3400 to get the same amount of product at the grocery store by purchasing their Get Clean Starter Kit.
I don't know about you, but that's a good deal for your health, your pocket book, and for the environment. Check them out: Shaklee Corporation.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Can you believe it?
I can't believe it was just 2 weeks ago that I posted about our local gas price being below $2.50. Yesterday...
That's what I'm talking about! Since taking this photo, it has decreased another cent and a different gas station is down to $2.04! I remember the last time that we paid less than $2.00 per gallon was Valentine's Day 2006 when we lived in Burnsville, MN. As long as the prices keep going the way they are, I'm sure we'll see less than $2.00 (actually just south of us in Fredericksburg, VA already are seeing these prices!) before the end of the year.
If you check out Gas Buddy online, you can find the cheapest gas price in your area as well.
That's what I'm talking about! Since taking this photo, it has decreased another cent and a different gas station is down to $2.04! I remember the last time that we paid less than $2.00 per gallon was Valentine's Day 2006 when we lived in Burnsville, MN. As long as the prices keep going the way they are, I'm sure we'll see less than $2.00 (actually just south of us in Fredericksburg, VA already are seeing these prices!) before the end of the year.
If you check out Gas Buddy online, you can find the cheapest gas price in your area as well.
Toy Trade
I saw an article/advertisement in the new "Cookie" magazine for parents about a new company for kids.
If you or someone you know has children, then you might be familiar with how fast children get bored with their toys. This is for you! BabyPlays.com, the Netflix for kids with toys, let subscribers create wish lists of clean, safe play items that can be checked out and returned once kids are tired of them. The selection of toys is geared for children 5 and younger, and plans start at $27 a month for five toys. This great idea also includes shipping AND batteries!
This company also donates toys to military families overseas and families in need as well.
Check it out!
If you or someone you know has children, then you might be familiar with how fast children get bored with their toys. This is for you! BabyPlays.com, the Netflix for kids with toys, let subscribers create wish lists of clean, safe play items that can be checked out and returned once kids are tired of them. The selection of toys is geared for children 5 and younger, and plans start at $27 a month for five toys. This great idea also includes shipping AND batteries!
This company also donates toys to military families overseas and families in need as well.
Check it out!
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
October in Review
The month of October started off with our trip to Disney World. We got Little Man excited about the trip by having him help pack his own toys. Not to mention we had to go to the airport and see lots of airplanes. I would have posted all the pictures individually, but there were way too many to highlight. I know I should have done a separate page just about Disney World. I made sure to make the more important images larger (clockwise from top left), like him debating on how to step onto the plane, sitting on the plane with a huge smile (he was such a good traveler), playing in the water fountains at the condo pool, our dinner at Planet Hollywood, picture with Tigger and Pooh, toting around his Thomas bag and backpack, first time swimming, and our meet with Mickey and Minnie. We had such a great time, we can't wait to go back again soon (next time it will be longer).
Is this kid not the cutest? He started wanting to wear his sunglasses more this month, especially daddy's. These blue sunglasses are infant/toddler glasses that just barely fit him thanks to his big head.
Since he's been born he's had a camera in his face and now he can actually pretend to be taking the pictures. Since our little Canon Elph finally died in September, we needed to buy a new one and this one got passed onto him. He loves walking around the house with the camera up to his face saying "Chee!!"
Once again, our local O.W.L. (Occaquan, Lorton, Woodbridge) Volunteer Fire Station had their Open House. This day, Little Man decided NOT to take a nap. Well, it was a good thing we had something to do to keep him occupied. He loved getting into the fire truck and ambulance and got him registered with the County in case he goes missing. We even made sure to get a picture of him standing in front of the jackets so we could compare from last year. Unfortunately, his tiredness shined through when we told him it was time to go.
We decided to try something local this year with a pumpkin patch and tried a local nursery that had moon bounce, slides, a wooden train and fire truck to climb on. Although there wasn't much to do besides those mentioned, Little Man had a great time climbing and running around. And we got to go home with a small pumpkin.
Since all of Little Man's teeth are in (except for his 4th year molars), we've really tried to make sure we are brushing his teeth twice daily. We've made it part of our morning and evening routine. This time, he thought it would be fun to brush mom's teeth while I brushed his. Whatever makes the job more fun.
Little Man has a love of trains. So much so he threw a huge temper tantrum when we took it away when he started throwing the track. Needless to say, we know how to push his buttons. He's gotten much better about not throwing his toys and loves to put the train track together every day.
Since Gramma and Pop-pop have left in September, Little Man has been constantly saying their names. When we walk by the spare bedroom, he'll knock on the door and say "Pop-pop?" He'll look up at the phone and say "Gram?" He'll see a big, yellow Penske truck drive by and yell, "Pop-pop!" I'm glad that he is starting to remember them and realize that they are very much a part of his life. At the same time, it makes me sad to say "Gramma and Pop-pop aren't here, baby." Maybe we'll be closer again some day soon.
The month ended with a fun Halloween. Mainly because Little Man is starting to realize and understand what's going on around him. He was completely fine with his costume (which was a relief considering it was too small) and loved to carry his little treat pale. By the end of the evening, we even had him saying, "treat please."
The month of October seemed to fly by. I can only imagine the joys and adventures we'll be experiencing in the month of November. I can't believe he'll be two years old next month. Stay tuned!
Is this kid not the cutest? He started wanting to wear his sunglasses more this month, especially daddy's. These blue sunglasses are infant/toddler glasses that just barely fit him thanks to his big head.
Since he's been born he's had a camera in his face and now he can actually pretend to be taking the pictures. Since our little Canon Elph finally died in September, we needed to buy a new one and this one got passed onto him. He loves walking around the house with the camera up to his face saying "Chee!!"
Once again, our local O.W.L. (Occaquan, Lorton, Woodbridge) Volunteer Fire Station had their Open House. This day, Little Man decided NOT to take a nap. Well, it was a good thing we had something to do to keep him occupied. He loved getting into the fire truck and ambulance and got him registered with the County in case he goes missing. We even made sure to get a picture of him standing in front of the jackets so we could compare from last year. Unfortunately, his tiredness shined through when we told him it was time to go.
We decided to try something local this year with a pumpkin patch and tried a local nursery that had moon bounce, slides, a wooden train and fire truck to climb on. Although there wasn't much to do besides those mentioned, Little Man had a great time climbing and running around. And we got to go home with a small pumpkin.
Since all of Little Man's teeth are in (except for his 4th year molars), we've really tried to make sure we are brushing his teeth twice daily. We've made it part of our morning and evening routine. This time, he thought it would be fun to brush mom's teeth while I brushed his. Whatever makes the job more fun.
Little Man has a love of trains. So much so he threw a huge temper tantrum when we took it away when he started throwing the track. Needless to say, we know how to push his buttons. He's gotten much better about not throwing his toys and loves to put the train track together every day.
Since Gramma and Pop-pop have left in September, Little Man has been constantly saying their names. When we walk by the spare bedroom, he'll knock on the door and say "Pop-pop?" He'll look up at the phone and say "Gram?" He'll see a big, yellow Penske truck drive by and yell, "Pop-pop!" I'm glad that he is starting to remember them and realize that they are very much a part of his life. At the same time, it makes me sad to say "Gramma and Pop-pop aren't here, baby." Maybe we'll be closer again some day soon.
The month ended with a fun Halloween. Mainly because Little Man is starting to realize and understand what's going on around him. He was completely fine with his costume (which was a relief considering it was too small) and loved to carry his little treat pale. By the end of the evening, we even had him saying, "treat please."
The month of October seemed to fly by. I can only imagine the joys and adventures we'll be experiencing in the month of November. I can't believe he'll be two years old next month. Stay tuned!
Friday, October 31, 2008
Trick or Treat!
Here are some great photos of Little Man A and Little Sprout (Isdihara's little guy) at our local library's "Parade of Costumes". They got to hear the cutest Halloween books, parade around the library for treats, and all the costumes we too cute!
Thursday, October 30, 2008
I'm a Marilyn
Wenderina posted her results from a recent "test" she took online, Are you a Jackie or a Marilyn?. It's only two questions, but so far from the results of her test and mine, it's fairly accurate.
Your result for Are You a Jackie or a Marilyn? Or Someone Else? Mad Men-era Female Icon Quiz...
You Are a Marilyn!
You are a Marilyn -- "I am affectionate and skeptical."
How to Get Along with Me
* Be direct and clear (True!)
* Listen to me carefully
* Don't judge me for my anxiety
* Work things through with me
* Reassure me that everything is OK between us (Too Ture!!)
* Laugh and make jokes with me
* Gently push me toward new experiences
* Try not to overreact to my overreacting. (especially in an argument)
What I Like About Being a Marilyn
* being committed and faithful to family and friends
* being responsible and hardworking
* being compassionate toward others
* having intellect and wit
* being a nonconformist
* confronting danger bravely
* being direct and assertive
What's Hard About Being a Marilyn
* the constant push and pull involved in trying to make up my mind (I hate this!)
* procrastinating because of fear of failure; having little confidence in myself (True- how long did it take me to start my business?)
* fearing being abandoned or taken advantage of (Hello! I'm a military wife!)
* exhausting myself by worrying and scanning for danger
* wishing I had a rule book at work so I could do everything right (Amen!!)
* being too critical of myself when I haven't lived up to my expectations (Can you say OCD?)
Marilyns as Children Often
* are friendly, likable, and dependable, and/or sarcastic, bossy, and stubborn
* are anxious and hypervigilant; anticipate danger
* form a team of "us against them" with a best friend or parent
* look to groups or authorities to protect them and/or question authority and rebel
* are neglected or abused, come from unpredictable or alcoholic families, and/or take on the fearfulness of an overly anxious parent (I hope this isn't ture!)
Marilyns as Parents
* are often loving, nurturing, and have a strong sense of duty
* are sometimes reluctant to give their children independence (Aren't all parents?)
* worry more than most that their children will get hurt
* sometimes have trouble saying no and setting boundaries
Try it for yourself.
Marilyns are responsible, trustworthy, and value loyalty to family, friends, groups, and causes. Their personalities range broadly from reserved and timid to outspoken and confrontative.
How to Get Along with Me
* Be direct and clear (True!)
* Listen to me carefully
* Don't judge me for my anxiety
* Work things through with me
* Reassure me that everything is OK between us (Too Ture!!)
* Laugh and make jokes with me
* Gently push me toward new experiences
* Try not to overreact to my overreacting. (especially in an argument)
What I Like About Being a Marilyn
* being committed and faithful to family and friends
* being responsible and hardworking
* being compassionate toward others
* having intellect and wit
* being a nonconformist
* confronting danger bravely
* being direct and assertive
What's Hard About Being a Marilyn
* the constant push and pull involved in trying to make up my mind (I hate this!)
* procrastinating because of fear of failure; having little confidence in myself (True- how long did it take me to start my business?)
* fearing being abandoned or taken advantage of (Hello! I'm a military wife!)
* exhausting myself by worrying and scanning for danger
* wishing I had a rule book at work so I could do everything right (Amen!!)
* being too critical of myself when I haven't lived up to my expectations (Can you say OCD?)
Marilyns as Children Often
* are friendly, likable, and dependable, and/or sarcastic, bossy, and stubborn
* are anxious and hypervigilant; anticipate danger
* form a team of "us against them" with a best friend or parent
* look to groups or authorities to protect them and/or question authority and rebel
* are neglected or abused, come from unpredictable or alcoholic families, and/or take on the fearfulness of an overly anxious parent (I hope this isn't ture!)
Marilyns as Parents
* are often loving, nurturing, and have a strong sense of duty
* are sometimes reluctant to give their children independence (Aren't all parents?)
* worry more than most that their children will get hurt
* sometimes have trouble saying no and setting boundaries
Try it for yourself.
Take Are You a Jackie or a Marilyn? Or Someone Else? Mad Men-era Female Icon Quiz at HelloQuizzy
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
September in Review
Last month, now that I look back, is a total blur. Maybe because October is almost over, but also because Gramma and Pop-pop visited for a week and then we were off to Disney (that's for October's month in review)! Here's a few highlight photos.
The month started out with Labor Day weekend and our first trip to B&O Railroad in Baltimore. Little Man was in total awe when we pulled into the parking lot. Then when we actually walked into the building, he was in total disbelief. Needless to say, we've helped with his obsession of trains. I can hear him now at Trains Anonymous, "Hello. My name is Little Man A and I love trains."
The following weekend Little Man A got his first haircut. I was trying so hard to see if it would grow out into a surfer dude haircut, but alas it just wasn't full enough to manage that look. I of course was the paranoid mommy who was calling it a "trim" rather than a "cut", just in case that word would evoke images of mass killings. Anyways, he did great.
The next day was Kid's Fest at the B&O Railroad. So, since we purchased a membership, we headed back to Baltimore. This time we arrived as soon as they opened and kept Little Man going until he crashed. He ended up falling asleep on the train ride (right around noon - poor schedule baby) that showcases some of the older parts of the railway line. Afterwards, we had our lunch at a local park and continued on with the fun-filled day. We all had a great time.
Gramma and Pop-pop came to visit and just in time for Gramma's birthday weekend. Our first excursion was to the Air & Space Museum near Dulles Airport, but still part of the Smithsonian Institute. A large, open concept "hanger" building with lots of room for a running toddler, I think the best part of the museum has to be the observation tower. Pointed in the general direction of Dulles Airport, if you arrive in the morning, you can literally see plane after plane land in the runway. At one point, Little Man was sitting in the front of the tower and every minute there would be another plane coming in on each side.
Gramma and Pop-pop were able to join us in our Sunday tradition visit to IKEA for a late breakfast. It also happened to be Gramma's birthday!
After Little Man's afternoon siesta, we headed out to our second excursion. The Potomac Point Fall Harvest Festival. Although Gramma is not a wine drinker, and we arrived a little later than we had wanted, we still had a fun time. Both Little Man and I got to stomp grapes (purchased from a local grocery store) and ink our feet. We enjoyed decorating and eating a pumpkin-shaped sugar cookie, a wine tasting (while Little Man watched "Happy Feet" and played in the kiddy room) and later, a nice dinner out.
That night, we all enjoyed a birthday cupcake-cake that Gramma and Pop-pop made in the shape of a truck ... just for Little Man A. It's from a Wilton kit that when you configure the cupcake shapes can create a truck, a rocket, or a train. Gramma wanted to practice for Little Man's birthday. Little Man agreed, it was a good birthday cake!
Hubby was able to take off the rest of the week previous to us leaving for Orlando, so Monday we ventured into downtown D.C. We decided to drive into the Springfield station so we could take the Metro into D.C. rather than trying to find parking. Little Man was so excited to finally get on "a train" bound for somewhere. He held on tight, just like Daddy.
Our first stop was at the Pentagon to visit the new Pentagon Memorial. A lot of thought, time, and effort went into this beautiful memorial where we honor those we lost at the Pentagon on September 11, 2001.
We ventured back onto the Metro to end up on the Mall around the corner from the Museum of Natural History. We stopped in the park first for a yummy lunch while Little Man chased after the pigeons on the ground. Inside, we were able to see the newly opened Sant Ocean Hall and of course, check out the Mammal Hall. Little Man loved looking and touching all the exhibits.
Surprise to say, Little Man actually kept going for another hour or so. We headed back to the metro before rush hour started (FYI if you catch the metro between 9:30 and 3pm, the rates are half the normal cost!) and Little Man passed out on the ride home. Thankfully, we took the long way home because as soon as we tried to transfer him into his car seat, he woke up. Thanks to the help of Gramma and Pop-pop, he was able to make it through the rest of the night without any major meltdown.
The next day, we began getting ready for our little vacation to Orlando. We purchase a timeshare at Sheraton Vistana Resort in 2006 right around the corner from Disney. I mean, if there we no trees between the condo and Disney, we could see Epcot. They are building a new condo, Sheraton Vistana Villages, a little further away, but still fairly close. For a rate we could not pass up, we stayed for 4 days, 3 nights and received two tickets to Disney, dinner at Planet Hollywood, and two AMC movie tickets that we can use anywhere. I was trying to get Little Man excited about the venture and also wanted to make sure he had plenty of toys (not like he wouldn't have anything to do there). So I brought out one of his backpacks and he helped fill it with his favorite trucks.
Granted I know it took me an entire month to get this post us, but I'll make sure to get October's month in review up next week. Make sure to check back for Disney pics, Lake Ridge Nursery Fall Festival pics, ad of course, Halloween. Have a good one!
The month started out with Labor Day weekend and our first trip to B&O Railroad in Baltimore. Little Man was in total awe when we pulled into the parking lot. Then when we actually walked into the building, he was in total disbelief. Needless to say, we've helped with his obsession of trains. I can hear him now at Trains Anonymous, "Hello. My name is Little Man A and I love trains."
The following weekend Little Man A got his first haircut. I was trying so hard to see if it would grow out into a surfer dude haircut, but alas it just wasn't full enough to manage that look. I of course was the paranoid mommy who was calling it a "trim" rather than a "cut", just in case that word would evoke images of mass killings. Anyways, he did great.
The next day was Kid's Fest at the B&O Railroad. So, since we purchased a membership, we headed back to Baltimore. This time we arrived as soon as they opened and kept Little Man going until he crashed. He ended up falling asleep on the train ride (right around noon - poor schedule baby) that showcases some of the older parts of the railway line. Afterwards, we had our lunch at a local park and continued on with the fun-filled day. We all had a great time.
Gramma and Pop-pop came to visit and just in time for Gramma's birthday weekend. Our first excursion was to the Air & Space Museum near Dulles Airport, but still part of the Smithsonian Institute. A large, open concept "hanger" building with lots of room for a running toddler, I think the best part of the museum has to be the observation tower. Pointed in the general direction of Dulles Airport, if you arrive in the morning, you can literally see plane after plane land in the runway. At one point, Little Man was sitting in the front of the tower and every minute there would be another plane coming in on each side.
Gramma and Pop-pop were able to join us in our Sunday tradition visit to IKEA for a late breakfast. It also happened to be Gramma's birthday!
After Little Man's afternoon siesta, we headed out to our second excursion. The Potomac Point Fall Harvest Festival. Although Gramma is not a wine drinker, and we arrived a little later than we had wanted, we still had a fun time. Both Little Man and I got to stomp grapes (purchased from a local grocery store) and ink our feet. We enjoyed decorating and eating a pumpkin-shaped sugar cookie, a wine tasting (while Little Man watched "Happy Feet" and played in the kiddy room) and later, a nice dinner out.
That night, we all enjoyed a birthday cupcake-cake that Gramma and Pop-pop made in the shape of a truck ... just for Little Man A. It's from a Wilton kit that when you configure the cupcake shapes can create a truck, a rocket, or a train. Gramma wanted to practice for Little Man's birthday. Little Man agreed, it was a good birthday cake!
Hubby was able to take off the rest of the week previous to us leaving for Orlando, so Monday we ventured into downtown D.C. We decided to drive into the Springfield station so we could take the Metro into D.C. rather than trying to find parking. Little Man was so excited to finally get on "a train" bound for somewhere. He held on tight, just like Daddy.
Our first stop was at the Pentagon to visit the new Pentagon Memorial. A lot of thought, time, and effort went into this beautiful memorial where we honor those we lost at the Pentagon on September 11, 2001.
We ventured back onto the Metro to end up on the Mall around the corner from the Museum of Natural History. We stopped in the park first for a yummy lunch while Little Man chased after the pigeons on the ground. Inside, we were able to see the newly opened Sant Ocean Hall and of course, check out the Mammal Hall. Little Man loved looking and touching all the exhibits.
Surprise to say, Little Man actually kept going for another hour or so. We headed back to the metro before rush hour started (FYI if you catch the metro between 9:30 and 3pm, the rates are half the normal cost!) and Little Man passed out on the ride home. Thankfully, we took the long way home because as soon as we tried to transfer him into his car seat, he woke up. Thanks to the help of Gramma and Pop-pop, he was able to make it through the rest of the night without any major meltdown.
The next day, we began getting ready for our little vacation to Orlando. We purchase a timeshare at Sheraton Vistana Resort in 2006 right around the corner from Disney. I mean, if there we no trees between the condo and Disney, we could see Epcot. They are building a new condo, Sheraton Vistana Villages, a little further away, but still fairly close. For a rate we could not pass up, we stayed for 4 days, 3 nights and received two tickets to Disney, dinner at Planet Hollywood, and two AMC movie tickets that we can use anywhere. I was trying to get Little Man excited about the venture and also wanted to make sure he had plenty of toys (not like he wouldn't have anything to do there). So I brought out one of his backpacks and he helped fill it with his favorite trucks.
Granted I know it took me an entire month to get this post us, but I'll make sure to get October's month in review up next week. Make sure to check back for Disney pics, Lake Ridge Nursery Fall Festival pics, ad of course, Halloween. Have a good one!
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