How can I still be surprised at the unpredictability of my life? Elijah and Owen fell asleep on the couch today around 4pm which never happens... ever. But can be explained- they were up extremely late last night for fireworks, smores, and sleeping in a tent in the backyard. This however doesn't mean that they slept in, oh no. They still came through the screen door very chipper at 6:30am. So, I knew the crash would come, I just didn't know when.
(side note: I wish I could capture my belly on video right now! William is doing his
sea monster thing, making my belly move in unnatural ways like an alien possessed watermelon)!
Martin came home to a nesting wife, and for once it felt like I could actually get something done because the big boys were still sleeping on the couch! I filled the diaper organizer with the one small package of newborn diapers I bought today (knowing William will most likely only need these his first two days, after which he will move right into the size one diapers because I only have very big babies). I cut tags off of things and put other things in piles of this and that. I smiled ecstatically at the scrapbook art I made of William's name and added a few greyish-brown bows.
Then, I got hungry... and for some reason there was nothing to eat... again. Honey went out for pizza... again. Oops. Nesting wife apparently can't also be nurturing, cooking housewife. He came back with Chicken garlic/ olive and pineapple pizza and cheesy bread! Bless that man! I contributed a salad.
Of course the very late nap of two boys meant a longer night. They were still full of energy by nine. We took a walk around the neighborhood after dinner, then I left them to wrestle and run with daddy in the front yard while I snuck away for a cool shower. When I got out... They were in their room, daddy asleep in the rocking chair. This is actually pretty typical. He often falls asleep before they do if he is in charge of the putting to bed portion of the evening. He pretends otherwise, but it's hard to miss a zonked out dad, and hyper kids enjoying it.
I thought I would get to watch a movie. Hah! Every ten minutes one or both boys came out for some life altering reason... hugs, kisses, water, potty, more hugs, other complaints about sleeping. At this point Martin moved to the couch and fell back asleep, leaving me up and down, pausing my non-kid movie, taking one to the potty, getting the other a drink, opening a window, turning on the "the moon lamp." At 10pm, Owen came out for one last daddy hug and Martin accidentally whacked him in the neck because he didn't notice Owen standing there- which instantly brought on unexpected tears and absolute need of consoling. Then Owen asked if he could sleep with daddy on the couch. I gave up... my sleeping partner, my movie, relax time, what else could I do? After all, I'm pretty tired too.
For some reason I remain open-minded, hopeful, optimistic even about how the days will go. Maybe tomorrow they'll sleep in. Probably not, but a mom can dream.
Thursday, July 5, 2012
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Three
As I am getting ready to have my third baby, I have been thinking about all the "threes" in my life. Some are simple and some more significant, but I guess the number three will forever be a part of me now.
I am the youngest of three. This may be the most significant one. Earlier on, before we had really decided how many kids we wanted, I thought I wouldn't have a third -this being one of the key reasons. It was hard being the youngest, and for all of you other youngests out there you know what I mean. The tortures! The decisions that get made for you. The privileges you have to wait so much longer for... etc, etc. And now, here I am- the youngest of three having my third at about the exact age my mom had me. Coincidence? I think not.
Martin, my hubby, also comes from a family of three children, only he happens to be the oldest in the line up. He had the perspective that someone always gets left out, but I'm not having four just to even things out! That's life... getting left out builds good character right?
Factual Fun about "Three"
When I was four I learned that there are three primary colors, red, yellow, and blue, that make up all the other colors! This amazed me, and I have been obsessed with color ever since. I love the concept that so much can be created with so little.
I am a sentimentalist, a preserver a time, and a dreamer of things to come. This defining part of my identity also relates to three in the way we separate time into three categories: the past, present, and future. I want to hold on to everything that reminds me of something or someone special, but I also love planning and having things to look forward to. I guess I struggle most with being content in the here and now.
Women's measurements are typically taken in three's: bust, waist, and hips. I still have the card from the bridal shop where my measurements were taken for my wedding gown. Someday in the future... maybe I'll see those numbers again. After all measuring is much more accurate than getting on the scale for progress. Did you know that if Barbie were life size her measurements would be: 39-23-33? Ridiculous right? I won't tell you mine, even my goal measurements are far from Barbie, but the average woman in America is 40-34-43, in case you were wondering.
Three has been called "the perfect number." I guess maybe because it's balanced, like a triangle- that's kind of what I think of. When I erase some of the negatives about being number three in my family, I realize how truly balanced we are because there are three of us. Not that we always agree, or come together on things, but mediation can exist between us, which we all sort of take turns at. My brother, who is in the middle, is best at this peacemaker role, and Jenny and I as the other points of the triangle have often needed his calm balancing act. Who would have done it if we didn't have him? Who would Jenny have picked on if she didn't have me?
Okay I had to add this silly/sweet one just because... My three year old, Owen has three adorable freckles on his face! I love them, and find it funny because I have a million running across my cheeks right under my eyes. He just has three though! One above his right eyebrow, one on his cheek and one on his nose. I like to kiss each one before he wiggles away!
So, now you know some of my strange thoughts about three and how it relates to me. There are probably a lot more that I didn't mention. I am most looking forward to the baby coming that will really make the number three significant to me!
I am the youngest of three. This may be the most significant one. Earlier on, before we had really decided how many kids we wanted, I thought I wouldn't have a third -this being one of the key reasons. It was hard being the youngest, and for all of you other youngests out there you know what I mean. The tortures! The decisions that get made for you. The privileges you have to wait so much longer for... etc, etc. And now, here I am- the youngest of three having my third at about the exact age my mom had me. Coincidence? I think not.
Martin, my hubby, also comes from a family of three children, only he happens to be the oldest in the line up. He had the perspective that someone always gets left out, but I'm not having four just to even things out! That's life... getting left out builds good character right?
Factual Fun about "Three"
When I was four I learned that there are three primary colors, red, yellow, and blue, that make up all the other colors! This amazed me, and I have been obsessed with color ever since. I love the concept that so much can be created with so little.
I am a sentimentalist, a preserver a time, and a dreamer of things to come. This defining part of my identity also relates to three in the way we separate time into three categories: the past, present, and future. I want to hold on to everything that reminds me of something or someone special, but I also love planning and having things to look forward to. I guess I struggle most with being content in the here and now.
Women's measurements are typically taken in three's: bust, waist, and hips. I still have the card from the bridal shop where my measurements were taken for my wedding gown. Someday in the future... maybe I'll see those numbers again. After all measuring is much more accurate than getting on the scale for progress. Did you know that if Barbie were life size her measurements would be: 39-23-33? Ridiculous right? I won't tell you mine, even my goal measurements are far from Barbie, but the average woman in America is 40-34-43, in case you were wondering.
Three has been called "the perfect number." I guess maybe because it's balanced, like a triangle- that's kind of what I think of. When I erase some of the negatives about being number three in my family, I realize how truly balanced we are because there are three of us. Not that we always agree, or come together on things, but mediation can exist between us, which we all sort of take turns at. My brother, who is in the middle, is best at this peacemaker role, and Jenny and I as the other points of the triangle have often needed his calm balancing act. Who would have done it if we didn't have him? Who would Jenny have picked on if she didn't have me?
Okay I had to add this silly/sweet one just because... My three year old, Owen has three adorable freckles on his face! I love them, and find it funny because I have a million running across my cheeks right under my eyes. He just has three though! One above his right eyebrow, one on his cheek and one on his nose. I like to kiss each one before he wiggles away!
So, now you know some of my strange thoughts about three and how it relates to me. There are probably a lot more that I didn't mention. I am most looking forward to the baby coming that will really make the number three significant to me!
Saturday, June 16, 2012
A Perfect Saturday
It's Saturday night and I am soaking my feet in lavender Epsom salt/hot water, and treating my aching back to a heat pack. Even in shorts and a tank, I'm sweating! At least it gives some relief though! We had a very busy day, but it was so much fun. I love it most when we are all together doing things, just me and my family.
The morning started out as usual. The three year old woke up first, toddled into our room. I scooped him up the best I could and let him lay next to me for a few minutes. then in came the five year old... daddy claimed him, and for a couple sweet moments we were all snuggled in bed. then "I'm hungry," came from the mouths of the sweet little boys who don't know about Saturdays or sleeping in. It wasn't even seven yet, but I rolled myself out of bed and offered to make breakfast since Martin was the more tired out of the two of us.
We like to have hot breakfast on the weekends when we are all together, and since tomorrow is Father's Day, and I won't have the sanity to make an awesome breakfast before church in the morning, I decided to make "Father's Day Breakfast" today. It was simple, but wonderfully delicious... crepes and fresh fruit hit with a dusting of powdered sugar and a squirt of lime juice! Mmm! Who knew I could make crepes? Elijah cut the tops off of the strawberries with a butter knife and Owen helped me mix up the batter. There were lots of yummie noises going on at the breakfast table. Then I surprised them and piled on a swirl of whipped topping... I love seeing their amazement at the little things. "wow, dad... look what mommy put on mine!"
After crepes and fruit we loaded into the car for an appointment (Martin's eyes), Farmer's Market, and errands. The boys and I waited in the car at the while Martin went in for his appointment; we sang and drew pictures for forty minutes! Amazing right? Oh yeah and I had M&Ms, which helped. At the market we ate a roll, bought four strawberry plants (because Owen grabbed an extra one, and I decided four was better than three anyway), and then the pregnant woman needed another snack on the way out, so we left with cookies too.
Planting the strawberries was fun. I let the boys dig... of course a favorite hobby of theirs! They took turns assisting me, and we got all four plants into the planter pot on the back porch. Its the perfect height for little fingers to reach when picking time is here!
Then we had "make your own snack plate" lunch. They love this because it lets them feel like they are in charge. I put bowls and plates of things on the table like carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, cheese, crackers, bread, grapes, strawberries, pineapple, and other snacks. They load up on whatever they want! Owen made a design with his carrots that he called an "anzigon" or something close to that, which I think he meant hexagon, but it was cute.
Daddy finally mowed the lawn... but I wouldn't let them "help." It scares me too much to have them in the yard when he is mowing because he can't hear them, and he's very focused on getting it just right. However, they were very pleased to help with the painting job! While I took a sit down break they painted boards in the driveway which Martin is turning into shelves for the baby room. When I went to check on them the had paint all over them! faces. neck. arms, hands. Thank goodness it wasn't in their hair! then they spent the afternoon tackling each other in the front lawn. their giggles were definitely the best part!
Owen skipped his nap due to all the fun, and ended up looking very droopy eyed riding in the cart at Joann's Fabric. I'm positive he would have fallen asleep sitting up that way if Martin hadn't decided to carry him the rest of they way. I bought some fabric that I"m going to make some very clever book holders out of (blog on this to come). I didn't end up getting the iron-on letters I wanted because they were priced incorrectly. I wanted to spell out "the littlest brother" on a onesie for William and if the marked .25 per letter would have been correct, I could have done it, but it turns out they claimed the letters were $1.79 each! Ridiculous! Must find another way!
After dinner Owen came out of his room in his swimming shorts and announced that he was going to run in the sprinkler. (Martin had turned it on for watering). then Elijah jumped on the idea, "Wait for me, I'm getting my stuff on too!" they still had an hour before bedtime, so I went a head and let them! Why not, right? They needed a bath any way to get all that paint off, how much worse could a little more dirt do? They had a ton of fun! Did I mention our sprinklers are rigged up to the outsides of the fence? Yeah. It's like a sprinkler system above ground.
It's just the beginning of many fun summer days! I wish every day was a Saturday. We all really miss "daddy" during the weekdays. He is the most wonderful dad I could ask for, for these boys of mine. I love seeing him in them... how caring they are, and thoughtful, just like their daddy. I can't wait to give him his Father's Day gift tomorrow! I'm also making a true "Dad" kind of lunch for him and my dad- Burgers of course!
Love on all of those wonderful dads tomorrow! Let them know how special they are!
The morning started out as usual. The three year old woke up first, toddled into our room. I scooped him up the best I could and let him lay next to me for a few minutes. then in came the five year old... daddy claimed him, and for a couple sweet moments we were all snuggled in bed. then "I'm hungry," came from the mouths of the sweet little boys who don't know about Saturdays or sleeping in. It wasn't even seven yet, but I rolled myself out of bed and offered to make breakfast since Martin was the more tired out of the two of us.
We like to have hot breakfast on the weekends when we are all together, and since tomorrow is Father's Day, and I won't have the sanity to make an awesome breakfast before church in the morning, I decided to make "Father's Day Breakfast" today. It was simple, but wonderfully delicious... crepes and fresh fruit hit with a dusting of powdered sugar and a squirt of lime juice! Mmm! Who knew I could make crepes? Elijah cut the tops off of the strawberries with a butter knife and Owen helped me mix up the batter. There were lots of yummie noises going on at the breakfast table. Then I surprised them and piled on a swirl of whipped topping... I love seeing their amazement at the little things. "wow, dad... look what mommy put on mine!"
After crepes and fruit we loaded into the car for an appointment (Martin's eyes), Farmer's Market, and errands. The boys and I waited in the car at the while Martin went in for his appointment; we sang and drew pictures for forty minutes! Amazing right? Oh yeah and I had M&Ms, which helped. At the market we ate a roll, bought four strawberry plants (because Owen grabbed an extra one, and I decided four was better than three anyway), and then the pregnant woman needed another snack on the way out, so we left with cookies too.
Planting the strawberries was fun. I let the boys dig... of course a favorite hobby of theirs! They took turns assisting me, and we got all four plants into the planter pot on the back porch. Its the perfect height for little fingers to reach when picking time is here!
Then we had "make your own snack plate" lunch. They love this because it lets them feel like they are in charge. I put bowls and plates of things on the table like carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, cheese, crackers, bread, grapes, strawberries, pineapple, and other snacks. They load up on whatever they want! Owen made a design with his carrots that he called an "anzigon" or something close to that, which I think he meant hexagon, but it was cute.
Daddy finally mowed the lawn... but I wouldn't let them "help." It scares me too much to have them in the yard when he is mowing because he can't hear them, and he's very focused on getting it just right. However, they were very pleased to help with the painting job! While I took a sit down break they painted boards in the driveway which Martin is turning into shelves for the baby room. When I went to check on them the had paint all over them! faces. neck. arms, hands. Thank goodness it wasn't in their hair! then they spent the afternoon tackling each other in the front lawn. their giggles were definitely the best part!
Owen skipped his nap due to all the fun, and ended up looking very droopy eyed riding in the cart at Joann's Fabric. I'm positive he would have fallen asleep sitting up that way if Martin hadn't decided to carry him the rest of they way. I bought some fabric that I"m going to make some very clever book holders out of (blog on this to come). I didn't end up getting the iron-on letters I wanted because they were priced incorrectly. I wanted to spell out "the littlest brother" on a onesie for William and if the marked .25 per letter would have been correct, I could have done it, but it turns out they claimed the letters were $1.79 each! Ridiculous! Must find another way!
After dinner Owen came out of his room in his swimming shorts and announced that he was going to run in the sprinkler. (Martin had turned it on for watering). then Elijah jumped on the idea, "Wait for me, I'm getting my stuff on too!" they still had an hour before bedtime, so I went a head and let them! Why not, right? They needed a bath any way to get all that paint off, how much worse could a little more dirt do? They had a ton of fun! Did I mention our sprinklers are rigged up to the outsides of the fence? Yeah. It's like a sprinkler system above ground.
It's just the beginning of many fun summer days! I wish every day was a Saturday. We all really miss "daddy" during the weekdays. He is the most wonderful dad I could ask for, for these boys of mine. I love seeing him in them... how caring they are, and thoughtful, just like their daddy. I can't wait to give him his Father's Day gift tomorrow! I'm also making a true "Dad" kind of lunch for him and my dad- Burgers of course!
Love on all of those wonderful dads tomorrow! Let them know how special they are!
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Ten Weeks To Go Time!
I really thought I would be blogging more. I think of blogs all day long, and even begin great introductory sentences, even entire paragraphs in my head while driving or giving a bath. Optimistically, I think... I'll write that down as soon as... and well that moment never quite happens. The nap I expected Owen to take so I would have a little "me" time while Elijah quietly worked on a project, well again that would be the optimist in me assuming these things. So I haven't written a thing in weeks, yet so much has happened that I feel I could write twenty-five blogs in the next hour.
Noteable Newness:
Another pregnancy milestone has been reached... the 30 week mark! Which means the 10 week countdown! I can't believe it. Part of me feels that I've been so busy this little guy has grown inside me faster than ever. I mean, there's no getting away from actually being pregnant, but when you have so many other things to do other than sit around and admire your expanding belly... it kind of sneaks up on you in a way. It seems just days ago I was looking in the mirror at a nearly flat belly in wonder that there was a new little life in there... small as a jellybean. Now he's the size of a watermelon, or maybe an oversized cantelope.
I've been thanking God for the cool weather. I know most of you are sick of all the rain over here in North Idaho, but to me it's a good sign of a very mild summer- how perfect for my summer son to be born in. I don't do well with the heat, so I am entirely gracious!
Getting out of bed has become one of my days greatest challenges. It really is quite the event. And the fact that I have to do it numerous times throughout the night now... is just plain taxing. I have this huge body pillow, great for supporting, not so great for maneuvering over and re-situating in the middle of the night. The whole process takes a few minutes. Martin gives up waiting for me to get comfortable and pretty much stays on his side (what's left of it) out of my way.
I had my first five massages included in my pre-natal package at the clinic today. Awesome! I think this should be required for all pregnant women. There are so many aches and pains that we have to go through, massages should definitely be mandatory! I've had hip pain for at least a month now (sciatic nerve) and the therapist knew just the right pressure point to work on! The massages are just one of the many things I love about the care at the Midwife clinic.
The baby room is painted (thanks to everyone who did all of the hard work)! It looks so lovely! I need to do a post just on it's completion. And of course I keep meaning to... but other things come up like making dinner, silly annoying things like that! It is the most wonderful room in the house right now... I go in there just to look at it and smile. I can't wait to have it all ready for baby William. I still can't decide where to put things. The crib is in place, but I decided to wait to put the bedding on, I don't want it to get dusty. I also washed and put the few baby clothes I have saved from the other two boys in a bin under the crib. It was fun looking through them again. I gave a lot away, but kept some of my favorites thinking I would make a memory quilt with them... hah.. I don't sew, but that's a different story.
It's a phenomenal thing to watch your own body grow at such a rapid rate. Even though I've been through this two other times, it still amazes me in so many ways. You expect to fit something you wore last week... nope already too small. Or you buy a "medium" maternity top sizing it up without trying it on because who are you kidding with two kids it just isn't worth it... and nope doesn't fit. (at least it was only $1) yep, I refuse to spend much more on maternity clothes! I love the idea of sharing because they don't get much wear, you get variety by sharing, and of course it is way cost effective!
My two sweet boys are growing more exciting for baby to come just as Martin and I are. They keep thinking it's going to be any moment like I'll just be sitting on the couch one moment and holding the baby the next. "Isn't the baby going to be here now?" they'll ask. The time frame doesn't exactly make sense to them. I tell them things like, "right before school starts," or, "right after daddy's birthday, then the baby will be here. Elijah is very excited about holding the baby and giving him gentle kisses which he demonstrated to me today. Owen is excited to be bigger than someone else in the family. When we talk about him being "big" brother he is very happy and pleased with himself.
On the hard days, I doubt myself. Let me rephrase that... during the hard moments I hear that little voice in my head, "how are you going to do this?" "three?" "AHHHHHH!" They really are only moments and not days, for all days have both and good and tough stuff in them. Sometimes it feels hopeless because I'm getting bigger and more tired and less... "me-ish." Who knew it would take so much of me to do what I need to do each day, and many days I want to do more than I need to do... I want to have fun, and do more than "enough." I remember the doubts from before... the crying... the fears, but I also remember that God chose me for this. It is a special honor to get chosen for such a challenging task- the mother of three boys. He must believe I can do it, and most of me is completely excited.
I know these next two months are going to be the hardest. My kids may watch more t.v. than usual, and I may lay on the couch when it's perfectly brilliant outside, but that's okay. I may want to kill a few people for their responses when I tell them my due date.... "August, really...wow you've still got a LONG way to go!" obviously, I know that already thank you very much! But it's okay... people sometimes don't think things through. But if you see me, or some other pregnant lady... be kind, please. We even accept lies at this point- tell us we look pretty, cute, or something like that. Words are important... use them carefully. And, thanks for your support.
The countdown begins... 10, 9, 8...... here we go!
Noteable Newness:
Another pregnancy milestone has been reached... the 30 week mark! Which means the 10 week countdown! I can't believe it. Part of me feels that I've been so busy this little guy has grown inside me faster than ever. I mean, there's no getting away from actually being pregnant, but when you have so many other things to do other than sit around and admire your expanding belly... it kind of sneaks up on you in a way. It seems just days ago I was looking in the mirror at a nearly flat belly in wonder that there was a new little life in there... small as a jellybean. Now he's the size of a watermelon, or maybe an oversized cantelope.
I've been thanking God for the cool weather. I know most of you are sick of all the rain over here in North Idaho, but to me it's a good sign of a very mild summer- how perfect for my summer son to be born in. I don't do well with the heat, so I am entirely gracious!
Getting out of bed has become one of my days greatest challenges. It really is quite the event. And the fact that I have to do it numerous times throughout the night now... is just plain taxing. I have this huge body pillow, great for supporting, not so great for maneuvering over and re-situating in the middle of the night. The whole process takes a few minutes. Martin gives up waiting for me to get comfortable and pretty much stays on his side (what's left of it) out of my way.
I had my first five massages included in my pre-natal package at the clinic today. Awesome! I think this should be required for all pregnant women. There are so many aches and pains that we have to go through, massages should definitely be mandatory! I've had hip pain for at least a month now (sciatic nerve) and the therapist knew just the right pressure point to work on! The massages are just one of the many things I love about the care at the Midwife clinic.
The baby room is painted (thanks to everyone who did all of the hard work)! It looks so lovely! I need to do a post just on it's completion. And of course I keep meaning to... but other things come up like making dinner, silly annoying things like that! It is the most wonderful room in the house right now... I go in there just to look at it and smile. I can't wait to have it all ready for baby William. I still can't decide where to put things. The crib is in place, but I decided to wait to put the bedding on, I don't want it to get dusty. I also washed and put the few baby clothes I have saved from the other two boys in a bin under the crib. It was fun looking through them again. I gave a lot away, but kept some of my favorites thinking I would make a memory quilt with them... hah.. I don't sew, but that's a different story.
It's a phenomenal thing to watch your own body grow at such a rapid rate. Even though I've been through this two other times, it still amazes me in so many ways. You expect to fit something you wore last week... nope already too small. Or you buy a "medium" maternity top sizing it up without trying it on because who are you kidding with two kids it just isn't worth it... and nope doesn't fit. (at least it was only $1) yep, I refuse to spend much more on maternity clothes! I love the idea of sharing because they don't get much wear, you get variety by sharing, and of course it is way cost effective!
My two sweet boys are growing more exciting for baby to come just as Martin and I are. They keep thinking it's going to be any moment like I'll just be sitting on the couch one moment and holding the baby the next. "Isn't the baby going to be here now?" they'll ask. The time frame doesn't exactly make sense to them. I tell them things like, "right before school starts," or, "right after daddy's birthday, then the baby will be here. Elijah is very excited about holding the baby and giving him gentle kisses which he demonstrated to me today. Owen is excited to be bigger than someone else in the family. When we talk about him being "big" brother he is very happy and pleased with himself.
On the hard days, I doubt myself. Let me rephrase that... during the hard moments I hear that little voice in my head, "how are you going to do this?" "three?" "AHHHHHH!" They really are only moments and not days, for all days have both and good and tough stuff in them. Sometimes it feels hopeless because I'm getting bigger and more tired and less... "me-ish." Who knew it would take so much of me to do what I need to do each day, and many days I want to do more than I need to do... I want to have fun, and do more than "enough." I remember the doubts from before... the crying... the fears, but I also remember that God chose me for this. It is a special honor to get chosen for such a challenging task- the mother of three boys. He must believe I can do it, and most of me is completely excited.
I know these next two months are going to be the hardest. My kids may watch more t.v. than usual, and I may lay on the couch when it's perfectly brilliant outside, but that's okay. I may want to kill a few people for their responses when I tell them my due date.... "August, really...wow you've still got a LONG way to go!" obviously, I know that already thank you very much! But it's okay... people sometimes don't think things through. But if you see me, or some other pregnant lady... be kind, please. We even accept lies at this point- tell us we look pretty, cute, or something like that. Words are important... use them carefully. And, thanks for your support.
The countdown begins... 10, 9, 8...... here we go!
Monday, May 14, 2012
What's In A Name?
Our first two boys seemed fairly easy to name. With Elijah, our list was narrowed down to just two or three that we liked, and Owen's name was chosen quickly too. This third baby boy, however, has taken us some time. William was the very first name that I wrote down on our list that we both loved right away, but that didn't make it an easy choice. I wanted to consider every possible option... the meanings, the histories, the sounds of the consonants and vowels...etc.
Here are some of the names we considered (in case you are interested):
Bret, Eliot, Henry, Julian, Oliver, Truman, Wallace, Ulysses, Tristan, Robin, Reed, Gavin, Clark, Charles, Harvey, Walter, Atlas, Jasper, Milo, Miles, Benjamin, Jude, Rupert, Pierce, Grant, Gerald, Lyndon, Lincoln, Everett, Ethan, Asher, August, and Landon
Some of those are still in the running for the middle name, which we have yet to decide.
Choosing the name is such an enormous task. That's why I like to get started on it right away. I think I got out the baby name book the day after we found out that I was pregnant! A name definitely adds to a persons identity and may influence who they are when they grow up. It feels like so much pressure, so choosing the right one is extremely important to me. A few weeks ago we narrowed it down to just August,which Martin was leaning a little more towards than I, and William, which by now you know we have chosen.
Here is why I love the name William:
It's classic & strong, but can be made to feel contemporary with the nickname Will or Liam (note: those are the only acceptable nicknames for this child if you want us to acknowledge you... Bill will not be allowed).
I love the way it flows
It's easy (both to say and spell- people won't have to ask twice), familiar, old-fashioned, and makes me think of my little "prince"
The meaning: "Resolute Guardian/Protector" Being the third boy in the family, I thought it would be nice for him to have a name with a strong meaning since he'll have to defend himself against two big brothers.
I like the author, William Faulkner
This one might not make sense, but I thought it kind of goes well with his siblings names... Elijah, Owen, and William. They just sound good together, they fit.
Once we decided on the name I went out and bought these blocks at a second hand store to spell out his name! They will probably go on a shelf in his room.
Here are some of the names we considered (in case you are interested):
Bret, Eliot, Henry, Julian, Oliver, Truman, Wallace, Ulysses, Tristan, Robin, Reed, Gavin, Clark, Charles, Harvey, Walter, Atlas, Jasper, Milo, Miles, Benjamin, Jude, Rupert, Pierce, Grant, Gerald, Lyndon, Lincoln, Everett, Ethan, Asher, August, and Landon
Some of those are still in the running for the middle name, which we have yet to decide.
Choosing the name is such an enormous task. That's why I like to get started on it right away. I think I got out the baby name book the day after we found out that I was pregnant! A name definitely adds to a persons identity and may influence who they are when they grow up. It feels like so much pressure, so choosing the right one is extremely important to me. A few weeks ago we narrowed it down to just August,which Martin was leaning a little more towards than I, and William, which by now you know we have chosen.
Here is why I love the name William:
It's classic & strong, but can be made to feel contemporary with the nickname Will or Liam (note: those are the only acceptable nicknames for this child if you want us to acknowledge you... Bill will not be allowed).
I love the way it flows
It's easy (both to say and spell- people won't have to ask twice), familiar, old-fashioned, and makes me think of my little "prince"
The meaning: "Resolute Guardian/Protector" Being the third boy in the family, I thought it would be nice for him to have a name with a strong meaning since he'll have to defend himself against two big brothers.
I like the author, William Faulkner
This one might not make sense, but I thought it kind of goes well with his siblings names... Elijah, Owen, and William. They just sound good together, they fit.
sorry if I'm over-sharing in this pic. I had a little too much fun with the name excitement!
So, now you all know... baby William White is on his way!
Note: posible middle names- James(after Martin's dad and my brother), Jude (means Praise and thankfulness- my vote for now), Henry, & Kenneth (after Martin's Grandpa).
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Big Boys and their Ways
Owen's first night sleeping on the bottom bunk! I can hardly believe it. I went in his room and looked at his little toddler bed... it looked so empty and weird without him in it. We actually weren't going to move him in until the end of May, but things never quite go as planned. We got the mattress last week, and of course both boys were super excited about all the newness of it. They kept getting up on it and taking turns trying to reach the top bunk with their feet. The next night after we got it, Martin put sheets and blankets on it without me knowing, so when the boys and I got up... it really looked like a bed! Owen claimed it right away and layed down on it, saying, "I'm going to sleep in here." That night we gave it a try. (two nights ago). They talked and giggled for a while, but then our easy deep sleeper- Elijah went right to sleep as usual and Owen was left chattering to himself. I don't think he expected this. He started crying later on, we came in and reassured him. He got out of bed after that... and wanted to go back to his "regular" bed. No harm... we tucked him in and he slept the night away. I'm not sure if he's going to want to stay in the bunk bed every night, but we'll make a slow transition if we have to. ( I love pictures of them when they are sleeping, no matter how old they get)!
The BIG INVENTION:
We actually don't know what it is yet, but Elijah has been collecting things for weeks claiming that it is for his "Big Invention." I gave him that dryer sheet box to keep all of it in. He would ask to keep all sorts of weird things like pieces of this and that that I was going to throw away. "Well, what are you going to do with this?" "It's for my big invention." It got a little out of hand. He really started hoarding things and then left it outside and it was pretty nasty. When Martin found it he asked Elijah to clean it out and keep the stuff that wasn't ruined or garbage. This turned out to be a very entertaining task. Owen joined in and they were fascinated with the rolly pollies that had made a home out of the box. Elijah really loved the rolly pollies... it was kind of cute. He kept showing me how it would crawl on his hand, then they wanted to feed it...etc. The big invention has now become a pile on Elijah's art desk... (okay I secretly threw away the really unnecessary tiny pieces of paper that were driving me crazy- he loves to cut things up, just because).
Toilet Paper Roll Bird Feeders!
These are so easy and fun to make with your kids!
First: you take a toilet paper roll punch two holes in it
attach a string, so that it will hang
let your child spread peanut butter on it
roll in birdseed
hang it somewhere and watch the birds together!
I did a few with Owen too, but he refused to really do any of it. He was afraid of getting peanut butter on his hands... go figure! But he'll gladly take apart a peanut butter sandwich and lick it off his fingers! For this project he enjoyed picking up the birdseed and burying the covered t.p. roll. I take what I can get... as long as he's willing to get involved with something.
So that's what we've been up to, me and me silly lovely boys!
Laughter- Bursting at the Seams!
Everyone is familiar with the emotional outbursts of pregnancy, but has anyone else experienced laughing attacks? A few nights ago I seriously could not stop laughing, and it really wasn't that funny to begin with, but the laughing felt so good. Every time something remotely comical happened I burst out in laughter that made tears stream down my face. It started in the kitchen. We have this issue with our dishwasher... well basically it leaks water almost every time we run it and I always forget and end up stepping in the little puddle getting my socks wet... which is one of my little pet peeves- wet socks. So I happened to be wearing my huge fluffy monkey slippers and stepped right in the puddle and kind of slid a little, and this for some reason was hilarious. I went on and on laughing all the way to the couch. Then this dumb commercial came on which was also the funniest thing I have ever seen apparently because it made me laugh so hard I wasn't sure if I was still laughing or balling. Martin just kind of looked over at me like I was insane and said, "doing all right over there?" to which I replied through laughing spurts, "that was so funny, wasn't that funny, did you see that?"
Anyway... this keeps happening. It happened last night while reading. There was a semi-funny joke in my book that just cracked me up. I was sitting up in bed while Martin was brushing his teeth, and he had to come see what all the commotion was about... me book thrown on the side of the bed, giggling excessively. Then of course I had to tell him the joke: "Two cannibals are eating a comedian. One says to the other- does he taste funny to you?" -funniest thing in the world. Martin smiled, and gave me a sympathy laugh, you know the kind you know isn't real, he was being polite. I made him promise to tell the joke at work to see if anyone would laugh out loud. Because obviously this was real humor here.
I guess what makes all of this so outrageous is that I'm not really the "laugh-out-loud" kind of person. When I think something is funny I smile, I might say "that's funny." I might giggle a little, but full out guffaws, nope. Not me. Even on funny shows or movies, I rarely make a big laugh. I also rarely cry. Now I do both. I guess pregnancy is just funny that way! I wonder if the baby likes all that laughing. I was imagining him twirling around in there like he does and then all of a sudden his world is shaking with laughter and a new sound. I bet it makes him feel happy too. It does feel good to laugh. You know after you've REALLY laughed, there's that relief afterwards. It's like, "oh I'm glad I let all that out!" At least that's the way I feel. Maybe we should all laugh more, even if the joke is lame, or the circumstance is just another blah moment. I'm certain it's good for your health, and makes life less mundane. I've also noticed that my kids will laugh with me even if they have no idea why we are laughing. that one is my favorite. you just can't help sharing that happiness when someone else is full of it.
Anyway... this keeps happening. It happened last night while reading. There was a semi-funny joke in my book that just cracked me up. I was sitting up in bed while Martin was brushing his teeth, and he had to come see what all the commotion was about... me book thrown on the side of the bed, giggling excessively. Then of course I had to tell him the joke: "Two cannibals are eating a comedian. One says to the other- does he taste funny to you?" -funniest thing in the world. Martin smiled, and gave me a sympathy laugh, you know the kind you know isn't real, he was being polite. I made him promise to tell the joke at work to see if anyone would laugh out loud. Because obviously this was real humor here.
I guess what makes all of this so outrageous is that I'm not really the "laugh-out-loud" kind of person. When I think something is funny I smile, I might say "that's funny." I might giggle a little, but full out guffaws, nope. Not me. Even on funny shows or movies, I rarely make a big laugh. I also rarely cry. Now I do both. I guess pregnancy is just funny that way! I wonder if the baby likes all that laughing. I was imagining him twirling around in there like he does and then all of a sudden his world is shaking with laughter and a new sound. I bet it makes him feel happy too. It does feel good to laugh. You know after you've REALLY laughed, there's that relief afterwards. It's like, "oh I'm glad I let all that out!" At least that's the way I feel. Maybe we should all laugh more, even if the joke is lame, or the circumstance is just another blah moment. I'm certain it's good for your health, and makes life less mundane. I've also noticed that my kids will laugh with me even if they have no idea why we are laughing. that one is my favorite. you just can't help sharing that happiness when someone else is full of it.
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