Steven blew a fuse last night while working in the garage--which busted the breaker--which was the result of a short in the garage. In the same day, the kitchen faucet decided it didn't want to turn off--ever--and so we had to turn off the water under the sink. Also, water is somehow leaking into the garage. This house if falling apart. Only 29 days till we move.
Stevie has taken to wearing his winter gloves all of the time now. And hat. I'm not sure if he just thinks it looks cool or if he's actually freezing all the time. He even sleeps in them.
I went through a lot of trouble tonight to make some delicious baked potato soup (a.k.a. ratatouille soup to my kids), and for some reason it just didn't turn out right. I hate that.
I've officially been called as the ward choir director, and I'm excited for Christmas. I only wish I could sing in the choir and be the director at the same time. Sometimes I wish that someone would just orchestrate and choreograph my life, so that every place I went would break out into some sort of musical event. I'm really crossing my fingers that there'll be something like that going on in the next life.
Today makes TWO days in a row that
1) I felt pretty good
2) I got several MUCH NEEDED household chores done
3) I've cooked a real dinner
I hope this lasts!
David is 1) definitely asserting his independence lately and 2) adamantly opposed to potty-training. Part of me wants to spank him and the other half wants to crack up at his crazy, self-asserting antics.
Little Jacob is officially on the move--or at least I can feel him now. Late at night and early in the morning, he starts getting the wiggles. Feeling the baby move is my very favorite part of being pregnant.
I miss my husband. This is weird because I see him every night, but it seems like we've been drifting off and doing our own things these past few nights. I think its time to turn the dang computers off and do some romancin'. So on that note...
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Friday, October 23, 2009
Tired of the Snuffles
I have officially been coughing, sniffing, sneezing uncontrollably and losing my voice for about 4 weeks now and I'm getting really sick of it. (Ha-ha, ignore the pun--I am my father's daughter). It's been bad enough to make me really uncomfortable, but not bad enough to get me out of doing anything--which I think is monumentally unfair. I should at least be getting some sympathetic slack-off time.
To clarify, however, my sweet husband Steven has been very nice about it all. His nightly dinners have been reduced to once or twice a week dinners, and he's been letting me take lots of naps. I'm sure if I asked, he'd graciously treat me like an invalid and be happy eating sandwiches for dinner with the boys all week. But my stupid conscience gets in the way.
The worst part is that I keep hearing rumors and scary stories about women who have mysterious headaches, nasty colds, etc, that last the duration of their pregnancies. Once they deliver, they feel fine. Oh please, no.
Seriously, Allergies--or Bug-From Hades, or whatever you are--you can leave now. Christmas is coming and I want to sing me some carols! And right now everything I sing sounds like croaking from the evil old witches in all the Disney movies--which in retrospect is very Halloween appropriate, so that's a silver lining, right?
To clarify, however, my sweet husband Steven has been very nice about it all. His nightly dinners have been reduced to once or twice a week dinners, and he's been letting me take lots of naps. I'm sure if I asked, he'd graciously treat me like an invalid and be happy eating sandwiches for dinner with the boys all week. But my stupid conscience gets in the way.
The worst part is that I keep hearing rumors and scary stories about women who have mysterious headaches, nasty colds, etc, that last the duration of their pregnancies. Once they deliver, they feel fine. Oh please, no.
Seriously, Allergies--or Bug-From Hades, or whatever you are--you can leave now. Christmas is coming and I want to sing me some carols! And right now everything I sing sounds like croaking from the evil old witches in all the Disney movies--which in retrospect is very Halloween appropriate, so that's a silver lining, right?
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Children's Museum of Houston
My friend Sarah treated us to a day at the Houston's Children Museum, which is now officially my favorite kid's place in all of the Bay Area. I could not believe what an incredible place it was! And the kids, needless to say, loved it.
Mikey was everywhere at once! There was just so much to look at! It sure kept Sarah hoppin'.
Stevie, of course, had to give a big cheesey smile in front of the string bass (which was actually a display on the mechanics of stringed instruments--but Stevie was impressed solely for the rock-n-roll status).
Regardless of how it may appear, Stevie is actually grimacing in joy and not extreme pain in this picture.
David and Rachel, who is gracing the camera with her signature fly-a-way hair and enormous baby blues.
Mikey was everywhere at once! There was just so much to look at! It sure kept Sarah hoppin'.
Here is Stevie hoisting himself up using a pulley system--which was a truly admirable feat because this kid weighs a ton.
Stevie, of course, had to give a big cheesey smile in front of the string bass (which was actually a display on the mechanics of stringed instruments--but Stevie was impressed solely for the rock-n-roll status).
Officers Stevie and Rachel zooming away in the police car...
Next stop was the Art Institute, where the kids donned their artist garb and painted a few masterpieces. (See how David's double-brushin' it?)
One of the absolute COOLEST parts of the kid's museum was "Kidtropolis," which was virtually a play city, where the kids could try out all kids of adult activities, such as pet shop, voting at city hall, the diner, the grocery store, etc...
Here's the kids rushing around the kitchen of the diner, cooking up my lunch order--which was something like grapes and fried chicken.
David brings me my food---straight out of the frying pan.
Here's Stevie playing the role of "Grocer" in the Kidtropolis Grocery Store. He did an excellent job helping me find items.
He also spent some time at the check out (seen here). They had a neat little touch computer screen where they could "check out" the customers.
Next stop was the Art Institute, where the kids donned their artist garb and painted a few masterpieces. (See how David's double-brushin' it?)
The kids also really enjoyed the pet shop, where they were able to take care of animals, listen to their hearts, weigh them, look at x-rays, blow dry and wash their hair, etc. Stevie really took this part seriously (as you can tell from his face).
I think David had convinced himself that he actually heard a heartbeat, hence his look of suprised importance.
To sum up, it was absolutely wonderful. What a fabulous way to spend a rainy Friday. I look forward to going back again!
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Feeling Better
It's been an emotional week.
With this pregnancy, I randomly decided to have the Quad Screen done, and ended up testing postive for Down Syndrome. Last Wednesday, after looking at my percentages, my OB-GYN called me personally and suggested that I go down to UTMB for a genetic counseling appointment and a high definition ultrasound.
I was devastated after getting that phone call. Completely emotionally overcome. I've always known that we'll be able to handle anything the Lord throws our way, but this time I wasn't so sure. I spent the next couple of days in tears.
The day of our appointment finally came. The doctor who gave us our genetics counseling was very direct. She wrote down both Steven's and my medical pedigree, in which we found out that each of us have childhood disabilities in our families. She told us that our chances were 1 in 53. This is where my eyes filled with tears. It was a higher number than I'd thought.
Then she showed us the chromosome information about D.S., and explained to us the mental limitations and related health problems. Then she showed us some pictures of the most angelic children I've ever seen, each with down syndrome. My heart was so full when I saw those precious children, and I was filled with fear and love for the baby inside me.
Next was the high definition ultrasound. The technician explained to us that she was looking for certain "slow markers," i.e. a collection of fluid at the nack of the fetal neck, shortness of limbs, etc. She stressed that the ultrasound was NOT completely definitive, but more of an indicator. As we continued the ultrasound, we saw the baby. So wiggly! Couldn't stand still for a second--it was adorable. I couldn't help but laugh.
As I was staring at the screen, not knowing what the heck I was looking at, the technician finally stopped and said to me, "I just want to let you know that so far, all the slow markers have been completely normal." I smiled gratefully. "There's that smile I was looking for!" she said. I started to feel a little better.
After a little while, she said asked us if we wanted to know if it was a boy or girl. DUH!! She told us that if she wasn't sure, then she wouldn't even guess--seeing as how it was only 17 weeks and all. But after looking for about 2 seconds, she typed out on the screen, "I'M A BOY!"
I laughed outloud. And then I started to cry again--it was so wonderful just to be able to say, "That's my Jacob! There he is! I love him!" It made it seem to me that no matter what happens, who cares??? Because that's my Jacob!
After the ultrasound was over, another doctor came in an talked with us. He told us that all the slow markers had looked either normal or better than normal, but that in order to be completely sure we would need to do an amniocentesis. He told us that because we weren't planning on terminating, regardless of the outcome, that we had all the time in the world to decide.
I think we've pretty much decided against it. It doesn't matter anyway--and though it would be nice to know, we feel like it's not worth the risk--for us--right now, at least. It was enough for us to see that beautiful little baby squirm and wiggle around. The doctor is having us come back in 3 weeks for another hi-def ultrasound--just because the baby will be bigger and easier to see.
So, without further ado--here is the little bugger whose been causing all the trouble--and who I absolutely can not wait to meet.
With this pregnancy, I randomly decided to have the Quad Screen done, and ended up testing postive for Down Syndrome. Last Wednesday, after looking at my percentages, my OB-GYN called me personally and suggested that I go down to UTMB for a genetic counseling appointment and a high definition ultrasound.
I was devastated after getting that phone call. Completely emotionally overcome. I've always known that we'll be able to handle anything the Lord throws our way, but this time I wasn't so sure. I spent the next couple of days in tears.
The day of our appointment finally came. The doctor who gave us our genetics counseling was very direct. She wrote down both Steven's and my medical pedigree, in which we found out that each of us have childhood disabilities in our families. She told us that our chances were 1 in 53. This is where my eyes filled with tears. It was a higher number than I'd thought.
Then she showed us the chromosome information about D.S., and explained to us the mental limitations and related health problems. Then she showed us some pictures of the most angelic children I've ever seen, each with down syndrome. My heart was so full when I saw those precious children, and I was filled with fear and love for the baby inside me.
Next was the high definition ultrasound. The technician explained to us that she was looking for certain "slow markers," i.e. a collection of fluid at the nack of the fetal neck, shortness of limbs, etc. She stressed that the ultrasound was NOT completely definitive, but more of an indicator. As we continued the ultrasound, we saw the baby. So wiggly! Couldn't stand still for a second--it was adorable. I couldn't help but laugh.
As I was staring at the screen, not knowing what the heck I was looking at, the technician finally stopped and said to me, "I just want to let you know that so far, all the slow markers have been completely normal." I smiled gratefully. "There's that smile I was looking for!" she said. I started to feel a little better.
After a little while, she said asked us if we wanted to know if it was a boy or girl. DUH!! She told us that if she wasn't sure, then she wouldn't even guess--seeing as how it was only 17 weeks and all. But after looking for about 2 seconds, she typed out on the screen, "I'M A BOY!"
I laughed outloud. And then I started to cry again--it was so wonderful just to be able to say, "That's my Jacob! There he is! I love him!" It made it seem to me that no matter what happens, who cares??? Because that's my Jacob!
After the ultrasound was over, another doctor came in an talked with us. He told us that all the slow markers had looked either normal or better than normal, but that in order to be completely sure we would need to do an amniocentesis. He told us that because we weren't planning on terminating, regardless of the outcome, that we had all the time in the world to decide.
I think we've pretty much decided against it. It doesn't matter anyway--and though it would be nice to know, we feel like it's not worth the risk--for us--right now, at least. It was enough for us to see that beautiful little baby squirm and wiggle around. The doctor is having us come back in 3 weeks for another hi-def ultrasound--just because the baby will be bigger and easier to see.
So, without further ado--here is the little bugger whose been causing all the trouble--and who I absolutely can not wait to meet.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Rainy Days
Something has been really upsetting me lately, and I'm not ready to write about it yet. I don't want to end up making a big deal out of nothing--which I'm famous for--but I will say that I've been worried, anxious and anything but resigned, and that prayers of comfort on my little family's behalf would be greatly appreciated.
That being cryptically said, I've unfortunately been in a 3-week bout of the not-feeling-that-wells, and this doesn't even have anything to do with Baby G. I think my allergies and a lacksadaisical cold got to together and conspired to make my life miserable for awhile. Not sick enough to stay in bed all day--just sick enough to be uncomfortable and lack will power.
Stevie, having the impenetrable immune system that he does, escaped any sickness. David got a teensy taste of it and Steven also got off scott-free, so that's good.
It's been raining, raining, raining. I usually love the rain. There's nothing better than snuggling up with Steven and laughing our rears off watching re-runs of "The Office" (which we did last night while eating sherbert....delicious).
But during the day, it's started to get a bit wearisome. The boys and I need our daily doses of Vitamin D in order to prevent the Cabin-fever Crazies. Amazingly enough, however, they've been getting along pretty well--no hysterical fights over who gets to sit in the blue chair, who gets to dress up like Spiderman first, etc. They've been in fairly chillaxed moods for the past few days, and while that's nice for the sake of family peace, it also means the TV's been on way too much.
(By the way, if anyone would like me to quote "Monsters vs. Aliens" verbatim from start to finished, I'm pretty sure I can do it).
That being cryptically said, I've unfortunately been in a 3-week bout of the not-feeling-that-wells, and this doesn't even have anything to do with Baby G. I think my allergies and a lacksadaisical cold got to together and conspired to make my life miserable for awhile. Not sick enough to stay in bed all day--just sick enough to be uncomfortable and lack will power.
Stevie, having the impenetrable immune system that he does, escaped any sickness. David got a teensy taste of it and Steven also got off scott-free, so that's good.
It's been raining, raining, raining. I usually love the rain. There's nothing better than snuggling up with Steven and laughing our rears off watching re-runs of "The Office" (which we did last night while eating sherbert....delicious).
But during the day, it's started to get a bit wearisome. The boys and I need our daily doses of Vitamin D in order to prevent the Cabin-fever Crazies. Amazingly enough, however, they've been getting along pretty well--no hysterical fights over who gets to sit in the blue chair, who gets to dress up like Spiderman first, etc. They've been in fairly chillaxed moods for the past few days, and while that's nice for the sake of family peace, it also means the TV's been on way too much.
(By the way, if anyone would like me to quote "Monsters vs. Aliens" verbatim from start to finished, I'm pretty sure I can do it).
Sunday, October 4, 2009
General Conference
Today was truly marvelous. It was my turn to sleep in, but I just can’t sleep past 8am anymore. Due to the rainy, lazy weather, the kids ended up sleeping until 9:30. So I had some time to myself to just read and think.
General Conference was wonderful today. Two talks really stuck in my mind. Firstly, President Monson’s talk during morning session. He told the story of Jack MacDonnell, a doctor he knew who was particularly devoted to service. He talked about how every day, Brother MacDonnell would come home and ask his children, “And what did you do for someone today?” He talked about how the children, anticipating their father’s question every day, would strive to have something worthy to report. Over time, the desire for a favorable report turned into a true love of service. I thought that was a really inspiring and wonderful way to introduce and teach your children about serving others.
The second talk that really moved me was by (of course) Elder Jeffrey R. Holland. The MoTab sang a rendition of “O, Divine Redeemer” right before his talk, and while I’m usually not a fan of that song, it absolutely BLEW ME AWAY. Mack Wilberg continues to amaze me with not only his fabulous choral arrangements, but the tenderness and musicality he so aptly expressed through his conducting. The entire experience was inspiring.
Elder Holland is always a powerful speaker, but today he was absolutely electric. His talk was a dynamic and unapologetic testimony of the Book of Mormon as the word of God. He spoke of how his grandfather had put it so simply, “No bad man could write it, and no good man would if it wasn’t true,” and of how ludicrous it would be to think of Joseph and Hyrum, considering all they sacrificed, as scoundrels. He spoke so strongly about how the Book of Mormon is undoubtedly the Word of Christ.
I was so comforted and strengthened by his testimony. I felt like I was being spoken to personally. There are many times when I discount the sacrifices made by the early members of the church. It made me want to weep when I thought of what was necessary to bring the restoration to pass, or to think that I could waver over any basic truths of the gospel. His talk really helped me put things into perspective, and gave me a clear and strong peace that this IS Christ's church and His work, and that I MUST work to improve my own testimony, notwithstanding my snail’s pace, for the rest of my life. It’s talks like these that help me know that Heavenly Father will answer my questions and prayers, and that He needs me to keep trying, and to do my part. It felt personal--like a scolding and a hug all at once.
General Conference was wonderful today. Two talks really stuck in my mind. Firstly, President Monson’s talk during morning session. He told the story of Jack MacDonnell, a doctor he knew who was particularly devoted to service. He talked about how every day, Brother MacDonnell would come home and ask his children, “And what did you do for someone today?” He talked about how the children, anticipating their father’s question every day, would strive to have something worthy to report. Over time, the desire for a favorable report turned into a true love of service. I thought that was a really inspiring and wonderful way to introduce and teach your children about serving others.
The second talk that really moved me was by (of course) Elder Jeffrey R. Holland. The MoTab sang a rendition of “O, Divine Redeemer” right before his talk, and while I’m usually not a fan of that song, it absolutely BLEW ME AWAY. Mack Wilberg continues to amaze me with not only his fabulous choral arrangements, but the tenderness and musicality he so aptly expressed through his conducting. The entire experience was inspiring.
Elder Holland is always a powerful speaker, but today he was absolutely electric. His talk was a dynamic and unapologetic testimony of the Book of Mormon as the word of God. He spoke of how his grandfather had put it so simply, “No bad man could write it, and no good man would if it wasn’t true,” and of how ludicrous it would be to think of Joseph and Hyrum, considering all they sacrificed, as scoundrels. He spoke so strongly about how the Book of Mormon is undoubtedly the Word of Christ.
I was so comforted and strengthened by his testimony. I felt like I was being spoken to personally. There are many times when I discount the sacrifices made by the early members of the church. It made me want to weep when I thought of what was necessary to bring the restoration to pass, or to think that I could waver over any basic truths of the gospel. His talk really helped me put things into perspective, and gave me a clear and strong peace that this IS Christ's church and His work, and that I MUST work to improve my own testimony, notwithstanding my snail’s pace, for the rest of my life. It’s talks like these that help me know that Heavenly Father will answer my questions and prayers, and that He needs me to keep trying, and to do my part. It felt personal--like a scolding and a hug all at once.
Some Tidbits About Our Weekend
Steven had an Elder’s Quorum Wii party on Friday night. It was poorly attended, but apparently very fun—seeing as how he didn’t get home until a little before midnight. Of course, that probably has a lot to do with my husband’s delightful ability to talk until the end of time (it’s actually one of my favorite things about him). It was okay, though, because I was able to watch the General Relief Society conference that I had recorded on the DVR, and I had a lovely time being uplifted and teary-eyed without any background noise.
Saturday morning was full of watching Conference and cooking. I cooked up a batch of baked potato soup (my favorite) to take to our Relief Society get together that night. I was also in an unexplainably amiable mood, and complied with my children’s constant requests for something different for breakfast (1st cereal, then biscuits and jelly, then eggs). I usually tell them to like it or lump it, but I was just feeling kind of jolly, what with conference on TV and being in a generally productive mood.
That afternoon at 4pm was Stevie’s first T-ball game, and I’m officially in love with the whole process. I’m not sure there’s anything more adorable than watching a hoard of 5 year olds alternate between wildly pitching themselves at the ball and then staring off into space or picking flowers. But when STEVIE HIT THE BALL—well, I can just tell you I was practically in a frenzy of pride. We’re still not really sure who won the actual game (the score was something ridiculous, like 21 to 18), but it didn’t really matter. It was all very low-key, and all about feeling good and having fun.
Afterwards, I rushed off with the boys to the Relief Society party and Steven rushed off to get ready for Priesthood session. I had a lovely time and even made some crafty homemade cards—and may I say, they are CUTE! Granted, Kallie did most of the work and I just glued everything together, but I’m still feeling very self-satisfied.
Steven, (though getting there very late) had a great time at Priesthood session too. He unfortunately missed the pre-session pizza get-together due to a massive headache, but took some medicine and was able to make it to the stake center during the first hymn. He said that he really enjoyed it, and never even looked at the clock the entire time. So I guess both of us had a lovely evening with our respective sexes.
Saturday morning was full of watching Conference and cooking. I cooked up a batch of baked potato soup (my favorite) to take to our Relief Society get together that night. I was also in an unexplainably amiable mood, and complied with my children’s constant requests for something different for breakfast (1st cereal, then biscuits and jelly, then eggs). I usually tell them to like it or lump it, but I was just feeling kind of jolly, what with conference on TV and being in a generally productive mood.
That afternoon at 4pm was Stevie’s first T-ball game, and I’m officially in love with the whole process. I’m not sure there’s anything more adorable than watching a hoard of 5 year olds alternate between wildly pitching themselves at the ball and then staring off into space or picking flowers. But when STEVIE HIT THE BALL—well, I can just tell you I was practically in a frenzy of pride. We’re still not really sure who won the actual game (the score was something ridiculous, like 21 to 18), but it didn’t really matter. It was all very low-key, and all about feeling good and having fun.
Afterwards, I rushed off with the boys to the Relief Society party and Steven rushed off to get ready for Priesthood session. I had a lovely time and even made some crafty homemade cards—and may I say, they are CUTE! Granted, Kallie did most of the work and I just glued everything together, but I’m still feeling very self-satisfied.
Steven, (though getting there very late) had a great time at Priesthood session too. He unfortunately missed the pre-session pizza get-together due to a massive headache, but took some medicine and was able to make it to the stake center during the first hymn. He said that he really enjoyed it, and never even looked at the clock the entire time. So I guess both of us had a lovely evening with our respective sexes.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Twelve Things I Should Be Doing Right Now
1. The dishes (oh dreaded, dreaded chore)
2. Laundry
3. Returning library books and finding something new to read
4. Getting my car inspected and….(nervous chuckle) registered.
5. Cleaning out the cesspool that is my car.
6. Figuring out what to make for dinner
7. Finding the elusive t-ball lady to turn in Stevie's forms.
8. Writing thank you notes
9. Practicing the piano
10. Finishing up a choral piece I've been arranging
11. Setting up the rest of my visiting teaching appointments
12. Sorting the recycling.
Hmmm. That's a bit overwhelming. Better get started.
2. Laundry
3. Returning library books and finding something new to read
4. Getting my car inspected and….(nervous chuckle) registered.
5. Cleaning out the cesspool that is my car.
6. Figuring out what to make for dinner
7. Finding the elusive t-ball lady to turn in Stevie's forms.
8. Writing thank you notes
9. Practicing the piano
10. Finishing up a choral piece I've been arranging
11. Setting up the rest of my visiting teaching appointments
12. Sorting the recycling.
Hmmm. That's a bit overwhelming. Better get started.
Friday, September 25, 2009
T-BALL
Here's "The Team" 
We finally signed Stevie up for T-ball! And he loves it. Mmmm, no, that's not the word--he's fanatically happy about it, and every day he asks me if it's the day of the "Big Game." (I think he got that phrase from watching 'Chicken Little').
Here's Stevie looking suprised he hit the ball.
As many or all of you know, Steven and I are not terribly sports-inclinated folks. Sure, we both appreciate sports--we're just not athletes per se. But we realized that at least for now, our boys both really want to be--and being able to find joy in being active is something we want both of them to have.
Of course I waited until the last minute, and consequently waited too late to sign Stevie up for anything. But luckily, my friend Marby told me there was a space open on her son's team, and they needed an extra player. Hallelujah! Now he can play T-ball AND be with one of his friends.
The coach is really awesome. He spends a lot of one-on-one time with Stevie, and I feel like Stevie's really learned a lot. And the absolute best part of all of this is how well Stevie is taking constructive criticism from his coach. The coach words everything just right-- doesn't baby talk them, but says everything in a way to show he cares. But he'll make Stevie repeat an activity until he does it right--and Stevie doesn't cry. His face doesn't even crinkle up--he just takes it like a man. I'm so proud of him.
Here's Stevie pow-wowing with Coach Joe.
And here's Stevie getting distracted during a pow-wow with Coach Joe. :)
During the first practice, they were running the bases and trying to catch the person in front of them. Well, after rounding 1st base, Stevie BIFFED it, and I mean hard. And he didn't cry! He just jumped up and kept running, and the kid behind him STILL couldn't catch him. That's my baby!
Everyone was saying that Stevie was fast! I guess all those times imitating "Dash" from "The Incredibles" was good practice!
David just can't wait for his turn next year. During practice, Steven will take David aside and practice catching and throwing with him--oh, and "baseball ready." (That's where they wait for the ball with their legs spread and their hands on their knees). It's adorable.
It's been a great experience so far. And I'm with Stevie--I can't wait for the first "Big Game."
We finally signed Stevie up for T-ball! And he loves it. Mmmm, no, that's not the word--he's fanatically happy about it, and every day he asks me if it's the day of the "Big Game." (I think he got that phrase from watching 'Chicken Little').
Here's Stevie looking suprised he hit the ball.
As many or all of you know, Steven and I are not terribly sports-inclinated folks. Sure, we both appreciate sports--we're just not athletes per se. But we realized that at least for now, our boys both really want to be--and being able to find joy in being active is something we want both of them to have.
Of course I waited until the last minute, and consequently waited too late to sign Stevie up for anything. But luckily, my friend Marby told me there was a space open on her son's team, and they needed an extra player. Hallelujah! Now he can play T-ball AND be with one of his friends.
The coach is really awesome. He spends a lot of one-on-one time with Stevie, and I feel like Stevie's really learned a lot. And the absolute best part of all of this is how well Stevie is taking constructive criticism from his coach. The coach words everything just right-- doesn't baby talk them, but says everything in a way to show he cares. But he'll make Stevie repeat an activity until he does it right--and Stevie doesn't cry. His face doesn't even crinkle up--he just takes it like a man. I'm so proud of him.
Here's Stevie pow-wowing with Coach Joe.
And here's Stevie getting distracted during a pow-wow with Coach Joe. :)
During the first practice, they were running the bases and trying to catch the person in front of them. Well, after rounding 1st base, Stevie BIFFED it, and I mean hard. And he didn't cry! He just jumped up and kept running, and the kid behind him STILL couldn't catch him. That's my baby!
Everyone was saying that Stevie was fast! I guess all those times imitating "Dash" from "The Incredibles" was good practice!
David just can't wait for his turn next year. During practice, Steven will take David aside and practice catching and throwing with him--oh, and "baseball ready." (That's where they wait for the ball with their legs spread and their hands on their knees). It's adorable.
It's been a great experience so far. And I'm with Stevie--I can't wait for the first "Big Game."
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
My School Boys
Well, not only have we joined a preschool co-op for Stevie, we also joined one for David! It's every Monday and Wednesday from 9:30am-11:30, and there's 5 kids in the class. This time schedule fits just perfectly with Stevie's 9-12:30 class. I actually have 2 hours of time to myself twice a week. It's bewildering! But not so much so that I'm not enjoying it immensely. I took a shower today BY MYSELF without any interruptions. It was almost spooky.
We really lucked out with David because this wonderful girl moved into the ward who's really on top of preschool (being educated in early education herself) and got things rolling. She also has a 3 year old son, who David just happens to get along with marvelously. They talk about numbers and colors and letters, along with various themes that change weekly. So far I'm pleased as punch.
So with Stevie progressing fabulously in his 4-5 year old preschool and David reaping the blessings of his 3 year old preschool, we are feeling pretty lucky! Just think, once the baby is born, I'll have TWO HOURS every week for just baby and me. Pretty luxurious.
Now I just have to get the whole carpooling thing worked out. Then the Nirvana will be complete.
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