Then there were THREE

Happy New Year

2012-01-09T09:08:00.000-05:00

The days pass quickly. I promised myself I would be better about writing and yet this is my first post in 8 months. Since my last post in May, there have been many changes. Daniel found employment with Dell, we moved back to Sobe, and Charlie has become mobile!!
Oliver and Oscar are now ages 5 and 3. They got Kickboard scooters for their birthdays and are scooting everywhere. The scooters make walks down Licoln Road fast and entertaining. Oliver's favorite toys are

Safari animals. Oscar remains loyal to his Hot Wheels and Matchbox cars.
Charlie spends more and more time vertical. She holds onto walls, furniture, and toys for balance. Yesterday she crawled onto Oscar's bed. Charlie adores Oliver, Oscar, and Lucy. She says a few words but her favorite lately is "go away". She says this in the sweetest voice imaginable.
Daniel and I are busy keeping up with the kiddos, training for the ING marathon, and finding quiet moments together.

Photoshoot May 11

2011-08-09T05:41:00.000-04:00

Ft. Myers beach May 11

2011-08-09T04:52:00.000-04:00

A Sunday at the beach May 11

2011-08-09T04:14:00.001-04:00

My world has shades of PINK

2011-04-21T01:41:00.001-04:00

My world has shades of PINK
The past nine months have been chaotic to say the least. Danl and I closed the business, moved to VA for two months, started a Ed.D. program, and welcomed Charlotte Jones. Updating this blog has remained on my to do list for months so tonight I am seizing the opportunity.

I completed my reading for tonight or rather I closed my books for the night. I am waiting for Charlie to wake and announce her hunger. Some days it is hard to believe I have a daughter and other days it seems like she has always been with me. I am in love. Oliver and Oscar are growing at a mind boggling pace and have endless energy. We go to the playground nearly everyday for two hours and yet they still bounce off the walls with energy.

Oliver is going very interested in helping with EVERYTHING. Oscar on the other hand is going through the terrible two's and tests me every second of everyday. Charlie is a sweet, calm baby who always seems to be waiting for me. I am learning to divide myself by four.

Danl is still looking for work and each day we are hopeful. Although we know this time of unemployment will pass, it often feels like it will last forever. We are both running to help with the stress and provide balance. We are thrilled to be back in the warm Florida sunshine.

Charlie calls.....

Time flies

2010-07-29T04:40:00.006-04:00

I realized the other day how long it has been since I have updated my blog (many, many months) and I promised myself that I would get to it this week. Here I am at 4:42 a.m. stealing a quiet moment and decided that this was as good of time as any!

The boys are growing so fast and each day I watch them transform before my eyes. Oliver's newest interest is tigers and each day he ROARS at his brother, me, and other random people. He has a Big Cats book that he loves reading and tells me that he wants to be a tiger for Halloween. (I am not purchasing a costume until October!) Oliver is still fascinated with sharks and sleeps with his stuffed sharks every night. This upcoming weekend we are taking the boys to Sea World for the first time and I can't wait for Oli to see the shark tank!

Oscar is an energetic little boy and fights hard to keep up with his brother. Physically Oscar is able to do most everything his brother can. Oscar's favorite book is Goodnight Gorilla. Oliver also loved Goodnight Gorilla at this age. I weaned Oscar five days ago and he is now sleeping better but still wakes up once a night. Weaning Oz was bittersweet, I love getting more sleep but I miss the connection with Oz. Breastfeeding moms totally get this....others do not.

The boys and I are spending our summer in the pool, at the playground and with friends. Patrick arrived this week and will be with us for three weeks. Oli and Oz are both crazy for Patrick (as is Lucy) so the poor kid gets no breaks:)

The photo above was taken from our three week visit to Big Grandma's house. The boys were definitely in their element.

Chasing my boys

2010-04-10T00:26:00.003-04:00

My last post was four months ago....I guess that says something about how quickly my days pass. At times I feel as though one day flows into the other and everything I do is working toward the end goal of having two happy, fed, clean kids in bed asleep at 8:30 pm.

Oscar is quickly gaining on Oliver and is in constant motion. Oz chases Oliver and has started to protest when Oliver takes things away from him. He also climbs EVERYTHING and I spend the day moving objects out of his path. Oscar talks and signs to ask for the things he wants (ex. cookie). He is still crazy about his shoes and wants to wear his Crocs all day.

Oliver is crazy about sharks and has memorized the words to three early reader books about Sharks. Oli requests to watch Daniel's shark dive video regularly and also loves the documentary Shark Island. Oliver watches out for his brother and is quick to report to me when Oscar is doing something he shouldn't be. Oliver has started going to music class with Oz and I and is now singing in class and at home. It makes me so happy to finally have him singing.

Two more weeks and Daniel will have completed his training at ATI. I am so excited to have more family dinners together. Danl plans to return to triathlon training upon his completion. I am busy chasing the boys when Danl is at the shop or school. Sadly, Erica is no longer with us because she got a job in her field. We miss her very much but the boys and I are adjusting. This past week my dear friend Natalie visited with her two children (Will and Gwen). We had a wonderful time together and managed to keep four toddlers/preschoolers happy (ages 4,3,2, and 1)!

The photo is Oscar in his favorite place...ON TOP of Lucy.

Welcoming 2010 with TWO toddlers

2009-12-28T13:19:00.004-05:00

I am remembering the days when I had so much more time to blog....funny how life then seemed complicated but in retrospect was so simple. Since my last blog entry in October- Oli IS potty trained (YIPPEE!!!), Oliver turned 3 and we celebrated Oscar's first birthday. Oscar is also RUNNING and CLIMBING! Oscar began walking at 10 months to keep up with his brother. My exercise routine is chasing Oz. He climbs up on chairs, tables, beds and sofas which wouldn't be so bad if he didn't fall off. I know that his days in the crib are short lived because he will crawl out. The boys keep me busy and I work to appreciate all of the chaotic moments of my day (knowing that time slips away quickly). I struggle to keep my stress level low and my patience high. Oliver is a brillant child who can be an amazing help when he wants to. He also knows exactly how to push my buttons....example I say "Lucy go lay down" and Oli yells "Lucy come clean up!!" and turns to me with a devilish grin.

Daniel and IBM have officially parted ways after 15 years and Danl is finally able to fullfil his dream of working on Land Rovers. He has opened Jones Expedition Vehicles in downtown Miami and we are hoping to be successful. Danl works long, hard hours but comes home with a smile on his dirty face! The boys and I miss him terribly during the week because he is also in class Monday - Thursday evenings. I am fortunate to have met a mom's group on the beach and the companionship of other mom's helps me feel less alone. Danl and I both have a healthy fear of what the future holds but are optimistic that our business will be a success.

We enjoyed a quiet Christmas this year with just the four of us. The week prior to Christmas Patrick came for a week and we also spent time with Gramma and Grampa Jones and Great Gramma. Oliver and Oscar love spending time with Patrick and their grandparents. Living apart from family makes the time that we do have together even more special.

Dedicated to underwear

2009-10-10T23:29:00.003-04:00

It makes me laugh thinking back to previous posts in my blog (well over a year ago) where I boosted about Oliver's potty success. Hah! I learned my lesson with Oliver and hope to be wiser when it comes time for Oscar's introduction to the potty! I know that I made the introduction to Oliver too early and pushed it too much in the months leading up to Oscar's birth. The result has been a mature Oliver still clinging to the pull-ups and using them regularly. With his third birthday around the corner, I recommitted myself to potty training yesterday.

I promised myself that I will remain calm when accidents happen and expect them. I also told Oliver that he can choose to wear any unders that he likes (he has around 20 pair) but that pull-ups are only for bed time. Yesterday he did really well and had no accidents. Today.....was a mess but I am hoping that tomorrow will be better. Hopefully by the next time I blog I can write about our successful transition!

Oscar is walking and has changed so much in the past month. He also has said a few words- Da dee, Ma ma, cake and dog. He is signing MORE, DRINK, GRAPES. Oscars personality is starting to emerge and he is becoming more strong willed. Previously when Oliver would take toys from Oz, Oscar would just grin but now he protests! Oscar is also eating solids from the table and no baby food. His favorite thing to eat is grapes. I often feel like I have missed many of Oscar's "firsts" because I am always looking at Oliver. I guess this is what happens with the second child.

I was recently asked what my favorite sound is and my answer is Oliver and Oscar laughing together.

Oscar is on the go

2009-10-07T22:56:00.002-04:00

A boys life

2009-10-07T18:33:00.001-04:00

Boys will be boys

2009-09-08T23:01:00.004-04:00

It has been a while since I've posted to this blog. I wish I could find more time to reflect and write about my days with Oli and Oscar. B.O.O (Before Oli and Oz) I wrote in a journal several times a week but these days I can barely find time to scribble a grocery list!

I completed my course work at Lesley University so I am officially DONE with school! Ironically on my last day of class at Lesley, I started teaching Baby Sign language classes. I signed with Oliver and loved communicating with him before he was verbal. I recently decided to become a certified instructor and am teaching at a studio in Midtown Miami. My first class is small but a wonderful group of mamas and babies learning to sign. Oscar is signing "more" and "drink" and Oliver loves signing to Oscar.

A few days ago I found myself thinking that my chaos is becoming more manageable. I still feel like a referee and need to closely monitor the boys but we have our daily routines down. TEN MONTHS....am I just a slow learner?? Our schedule is later than I would like it to be but I am struggling with trying to move it earlier. Danl is in school Monday - Thursday from 4 pm to midnight and I am waiting up for him. The problem is that the boys and I sleep in in the morning (7:30) leading to late naps for Oz and Oli, late dinner, late bedtime, REPEAT. I guess the only way to break this trend is to get my butt out of bed in the morning and wake the boys up. Maybe tomorrow:)

Above is a photo of Oli jumping on the bed at the Back Bay Hilton.

Oscar is on the GO

2009-07-23T22:30:00.002-04:00

I think I have my hands full...Oscar is moving fast and will be walking soon. He crawls at lightening speed and is into EVERYTHING! He is pulling himself to standing on anything in sight (including my legs) and is creeping along furniture as a biped! I have realized that I thought that I was busy before but I haven't seen anything yet. Oliver still adores his brother but is easily frustrated by Oz getting into his things. Sometimes I hear "Oscar no" but most of the time it is a pull on the ear, a tug on his leg or arm or a full body roll over!

Oliver is always in motion and talks non-stop. He surprises me with his large vocabulary and comprehension but I worry already that he could be one of those kids easily labeled ADD. I know I will need to be an advocate for his education. Recently I asked Oli if he was okay after falling and he responded " I'm okay, thanks for asking". Playing in the sand is still his favorite activity. Oliver also loves to play with his cars and trucks and bake cupcakes.

This summer seems to be flying by. Patrick came to stay for four weeks and just returned to NY. The boys and I came to NY with Patrick for a week long visit with Grandma and Grandpa. Oli and Oscar both adore Patrick and I know once we leave G & G's house I will be asked daily "where's Patrick". I am enjoying the visit with my Mom and appreciating the quietness of the country. It is funny how your appreciation for simple things grows with age. I am also enjoying watching Oliver run in the grass, dig in the dirt, throw rocks, and pick flowers. He is delighted by the freedom to run.

The photo was taken during a tea party at our place in Miami Beach.

Six months later

2009-06-01T04:17:00.008-04:00

In this photo Oliver is making his "mad" face behind Oscar's back. Oscar is six months old... Where does the time go??? Oz is very close to being mobile and pushes himself up onto his knees,rocks forward then falls to his belly and repeats. By doing this repeatedly he is moving FORWARD. He has also started to eat sweet potatoes (sniff) and loves them. As a breastfeeding mom, this first step of "letting go" is bittersweet. Oscar continues to have a sweet, calm personality and is always waiting on his brother. Thank goodness he is so easy going. Oscar has two teeth and is cutting his third. I recently weighed him and he is now 20 lbs. 4 oz.

Oliver has matured so much in the past six months. He knows what he wants and when he wants it.. His strong will wears me down sometimes but in general he is helpful and sweet. Oli loves to make Oz laugh and tells me "shhh don't wake brother sleeping". Oliver talks non-stop and his favorite phrases are "what are you doing?" "Sit on couch and relax" and "Oliver want to keep you happy mommy" (which comes after he has done something wrong). Oliver's new prized toy is his "lightening mcqueen" match box car and he loves the movie Cars. Yesterday, Oli left "tracks" on the back of Oscars' head with Lightening. :(

Our weeks are different now that Daniel is in school Monday through Thursday evenings. Each night I race the clock with the boys to get Lucy walked, feed the boys, clean up, bath Oli, read books and bedtime. I am getting better at the routine with the help of Erica. Who is Erica? Erica is the wonderful person that comes to help me out for a few hours each week. She provides me the opportunity to complete my school work, go for a run, clean the apartment, walk Lucy and make dinner. I am seldom away from the house for more than the two hours but it is a wonderful feeling knowing that the boys are in her care. Oliver and Oscar both adore her and it has been great practice for me to let go a bit more. I still feel a bit guilty for paying to have Erica's help BUT on those days when Daniel is gone for 15 or 17 hours, I am so thankful that she is here!

I am recovering tonight after 3 hours in the dentist chair for a root canal. The root canal is not complete because the infection was so large and I had a lot of swelling. I return on Friday for additional xrays and hope that the second root canal (previously scheduled for two) is not necessary. I pray each day that Oliver and Oscar will have healthy teeth and not go through what I have. This week Erica is on vacation so I have been struggling to keep up with the boys with a huge abscess and grateful that Daniel could take tonight off from school. I am hopeful that tomorrow I will wake up pain free and the facial swelling will be reduced.

Time to catch some Zzzz's.

With the blink of an eye

2009-04-24T17:51:00.004-04:00

I feel like I am missing it...Oscar is changing so fast that I find myself wanting to stop the clock, stop the days, so that I can observe. I can't believe he is now 5 months old, sitting up (almost unassisted), rolling over, picking up toys and scooting. My daily existence is chaos but I am learning to accept the chaos and flow with it versus against it. I am actually reading an amazing book called Momma Zen Walking the Crooked Path of Motherhood. I highly recommend it as a magic elixir for mommy guilt:)

Oscar continues to be a patient boy and far calmer than his brother Oliver ever was. I am also blessed that Oscar sleeps! I usually get him down to sleep around 8:30 and he wakes at 4 a.m. for a feeding. We continue to struggle with Oliver's sleep schedule and have resigned ourselves to having one child that sleeps and one that doesn't. Oscar has one tooth and is currently cutting another one. He blows raspberries all day long which is a great source of entertainment for his big brother.

Oliver is a wonderfully curious boy who makes me laugh each day. Oli takes pride in being able to help Mommy with Oscar. He tells Oz to "relax" when he is upset and reassures him "your okay". Oliver's favorite movie is Wall.E and his favorite toys are his trucks. A few days ago I told Oliver that Mommy's tummy hurt and he quickly ran to the bathroom and brought me back a Band-aid and shouted "make mommy feel better".

Daniel and I are working to find more time together and have been actively trying out babysitters. This is hard for me but I know that we need adult time so I am trying to set my worries aside when we do go out. It is great to reconnect after a week of diapers, feedings, cleaning, diapers, and more diapers.

Growing Pains

2009-03-06T23:44:00.004-05:00

It is hard to believe that my last post was well over a month ago. We have been experiencing "growing pains" and are learning to adapt to our new family. The adjustment came a few months later than expected and has been more challenging than I imagined. I am so thankful that Oscar is such an easy going and happy baby. We are blessed.

Oscar is changing so fast it is hard to keep up. I recall reading about all the milestones with Oli but sadly I don't have the time to read about them before they happen with Oz. Oscar is fascinated with his brother and Lucy and is content to observe them all day long. He smiles, coos and laughs at them and responds to his name when called. Even when Oli starts to get rough with Oscar, he just smiles and looks at his brother with his big, brown eyes. Oscar holds his head up during "tummy time" and Oliver loves to watch his brother on his tummy. Yesterday I told Oliver that eventually Oscar will be able to crawl and he pushed Oscar's butt and said "GO"!

Oliver has started with imagination play and makes me "cupcakes" and "sandwiches". I think he would love a tea set but I am not sure that Daddy would approve. A few days ago I did "this little piggy" to Oliver and Oscar's toes. Oli told me that he wanted to do little piggy to mommy and I decided to let him tell me the story in his own words. He said "this little piggy eat a cookie, this little piggy no cookie, and this little piggy wee wee wee all the way home!" These are the great moments then there are the moments of mommy madness. Oliver's sleep issues have resurfaced...UGH! On a nightly basis he wakes between 3-4 a.m. and runs to our bedroom carrying his pillow and literally throws himself on to our bed. It sounds cute but is very frustrating. Oliver has also reached a new level with tantrums and has me questioning myself on a daily basis. It is hard to decide what is typical 2 yr old behavior and what is in response to our "growing pains". I try to remain patient and reason with him but at times I just want to scream "JUST DO IT BECAUSE I SAID SO".

I am grateful to have mommy friends who remind me daily that these moments create the amazing experience called motherhood.

Moments of madness

2009-01-19T23:39:00.003-05:00

I finally found a quiet moment to update my blog. This past week Oliver has had a cold and unfortunately Oscar caught it too. Our evenings have been separate...Daniel in Oliver's bedroom and Oscar and I in our bedroom. I am hoping that Oli finally sleeps through the night because I know Daniel is very tired. At times I see our progress as a family and feel that we are getting the "hang of it". Other times are complete madness and I have a hard time choosing whether to scream or cry.

The marathon is this upcoming Sunday and ready or not it is only a few days away. I am fortunate to be starting the race with three close friends (Anne, Natalie and Kim) and will run the full marathon with Anne. I am looking forward to a weekend connecting with my friends, two of which live outside of Miami. We have plans for a group dinner on Friday night and I could really use an evening out.

Oscar is getting so big and changes every day. He smiles at us when we talk to him and "talks" back with coos and goos. Oscar still doesn't have much hair but it is getting thicker and his eyes are a mystery. At times his eyes look dark grey and others they look brown with green flecks. Each night I fall asleep looking at Oscar in the moses basket...it is so calming to watch him sleep.

Oliver's newest passion is Play-Doh. He loves the stuff and spends hours each day molding cruise ships, snakes and trucks. It is what he asks to do all day long..."play with play doh". Oli never stops talking and has started with "What's this, what's this" which I predict will lead to "Why". He continues to test and challenge me each day but has gotten better about running away from me. It is a big no no to run away from Mommy and Daddy and he knows it.

2009-01-11T14:43:00.002-05:00

Oscar likes to smile at his big brother, Oliver.

A New Year

2009-01-04T00:33:00.004-05:00

Almost a month has passed since my last post...Oscar is one month old, Kellan and Patrick visited, Christmas, New Year's day. Where does the time go?

I feel that the days are flying by and I am still struggling with how to change two diapers at once and how to feed Oscar and Oliver simultaneously. I have been taking the boys to Flamingo Park and have figured out how to play with Oli in the sand, push Oli on the swing, feed Oscar, AND change diapers.

Oliver has adjusted well to having a little brother and loves to hold him. Oliver pleads "PLLLEEASE me hold my baby, PLLLEEEASE me hold my baby brudder". Oliver also smells Oscar and squeals "YUK"! I am not sure where the sniffing and yuk came from but it is entertaining.

Oscar was 13 lbs. and 3 oz. at his six week appt. He is becoming more alert everyday and now gives Mommy, Daddy, and Oliver big smiles and grins. Oscar continues to sleep well and Mommy and Daddy are so happy about this. During the evening hours he is sleeping 4.5 hrs at a time.

Daniel and I have figured out a schedule that allows us both to get workouts in. We alternate days and get up at 5 a.m. for a workout. We are also taking family runs (Oli, Oscar and Lucy). I am registered for the Miami Marathon on Jan. 25th and am feeling a bit nervous about the race. I know I can do it, it is more a matter of how comfortable I will be.

I am a runner

2008-12-07T12:50:00.004-05:00

I realized today that I am a runner. I took Oliver out for my first beach run since Oscar's birth and it felt amazing to move my body again. I have run regularly for the past 7 yrs. but today I realized how important running is to my well being. I feel more balanced and calm today than I have felt in months. Miami Marathon, here I come!! We are starting to settle into some routines with the boys. Oliver is now napping in his bed when I tell him it is nap time. I read a book to him, tuck him in and leave the room. Some days he plays in bed for half an hour before settling down but he does go to sleep. Progress!! Oliver can now jump and is very proud of this milestone. He jumps every where and on every thing! Oliver has learned a new way to make me smile when he knows I am upset. He kisses me and then declares "NOW MAMA HAPPY!!" He makes me smile, laugh and scream :) everyday. Oscar is doing well and growing at an amazing rate. I take him to the midwife today to be measured and weighed and I am curious to find out how much he has gained since his last check up 10 days ago. He is now wearing a size 2 diaper. I have discovered that cheese makes Oscar a very unhappy baby so I have eliminated it from my diet. Oscar's minutes of awake and active time are increasing daily and his eyes are turning from slate to dark brown (similar to Oli's). Oscar found his thumb three days ago and has sucked on it a bit each day. I am wondering if he will be a thumb sucker like his Mommy and Daddy.

The Power of Two

2008-11-29T14:28:00.008-05:00

Oscar has arrived and is now 12 days old. The past twelve days have been a blur of sweet moments, tears, diapers, diapers, 2 yr. old tantrums and more diapers. I have fallen in love with Oscar and as everyone told me it would my heart has grown to accommodate my love for both Oliver and Oscar.

Oliver is adjusting to Oscar and seems generally happy with his brother. Fortunately he directs his frustration toward Mommy and Daddy. He has grown up so much in the past month that I find myself missing my little boy and at the same time am so impressed with what Oliver can do for himself. Oli asks to hold Oscar all the time and is usually very gentle.

Oscar is now 10 lbs. 1 oz. and has a healthy appetite. He coos, smiles and SLEEPS! Danl and I can't believe how much sleep we have gotten in the past week. Oscar often sleeps for 4+ hours at night....lets hope his sleep schedule continues on this trend.

Danl and I are adjusting to our new family and trying to find time to smile at each other. I still can't believe Oscar is finally here after the long, long wait. I am forever grateful to Shari Daniels and the other wonderful people at the Miami Maternity Center for helping me to achieve the birth experience I desired. I DID IT!! No drugs, no hospital, no C-section. I am so happy with the choices that I made and have a new appreciation for my body.

The waiting game

2008-11-08T00:17:00.004-05:00

I didn't imagine that it work would out this way, according to the ultrasound dates, I am currently 40 weeks pregnant (my calendar dates have me at Nov.12). I had a false alarm today and thought that my membranes had ruptured. I called the Miami Maternity Center and they told me to come up to be checked and bring my bag. I scrambled to get all the last minute things together, showered, kissed Oli goodbye with tear filled eyes only to learn that I am "getting close" but not there. I am thankful to be going to Shari because I think if I were in a regular OB-GYN office they already would have scheduled me for a C-section. So.....I wait and hope that the extra time will help me achieve the birth experience I am looking for.

My mom has been with us in Miami for 9 days and before she arrived Danl's mom was with us for 12 days. I am totally spoiled and so is Oliver. Oli has LOVED the attention from Grandma and Gramma. Having an extra set of hands with an active (almost) 2 yr. old has been helpful. My mom is staying until Nov. 17th and Gramma Jones is returning for a week so hopefully both Grandma's can meet baby jones. Thank goodness for family!!

Oliver has adjusted to life with Grandma's and has been his happy, silly self. He loves waking up to a Grandma in his room and spends his days entertaining us all. Oli's newest trick is hiding his toys then throwing up his hands declaring "where is ....? I don't see it...I don't know" then he laughs and uncovers the hidden item. He is still crazy about Curious George and watches George every morning on PBS. It is a life saver because he wakes up FULL of energy and it gives us an opportunity to have a cup of coffee to catch up with him.

The attached photo is Oliver as a pirate on Halloween.

Reflecting on our threesome

2008-10-11T05:48:00.009-04:00

I am happy that overall I got a good night of sleep. I didn't wake up until 5 a.m. this morning which is an improvement compared to the past few weeks. Unfortunately for Danl, I can't keep my eyes open past 9 p.m. and usually fall asleep in his lap on the couch. Other than feeling tired, I am doing well and enjoying our final weeks as a family of three (sometimes 5 with big brothers:)

Yesterday I took Oli to the park for an hour and a half and melted in the sun. We are still experiencing summer in South Florida and I am desperate for cooler days. Oliver loves sliding down the biggest slide at the playground and really has a mind of his own these days. He LOVES playing in the sand at the park with his bucket and scoops. It was so hot in the sand I tried to convince him to swing or play on the train and his response was "No, Oli play in sand with Mama". Seven word sentences- my little boy is getting big! Later we took an hour long bike ride on the beach while Daddy ran. Oliver talks to Daddy the entire time and keeps his breathing in check:) It was on the way home that I started reflecting on our threesome days and nights are coming to a close. It made me feel a bit sad because I know Oliver won't remember this time and I will always cherish it....okay maybe pregnancy hormones are getting the best of me.

I only have a few more things on my "nesting list" to complete this weekend (raise mattress in crib, pack my bag, etc.). We ordered the stroller yesterday and I am excited to get it and get Oliver comfortable in it. I am almost finished with Oliver's baby book (a big goal that I wanted to complete before Oscar arrives). I ordered photos and need to put them together and then his book will be complete. The video is Oliver goofing around with Daddy's skateboard.

Oli versus the bed

2008-10-03T19:27:00.003-04:00

Friday morning started with Oliver waking at 6 a.m. after staying up until 9:45 with the babysitter last night. Needless to say he was a bit cranky and got in trouble for trying to climb on Daddy's bike while Daddy was adjusting it. Knowing he was in trouble the little imp ran quickly into his bedroom and ran his head into the head board. CRASH, TEARS, and a huge goose egg. It has been a long day for all of us. Daddy is putting Oliver to bed now and I am hopeful that he will sleep well.

2,001 miles on the BOB!

2008-09-29T04:26:00.006-04:00

Our BOB stroller has officially strolled over 2000 miles! We love our BOB stroller and will be sad to set it aside for individual runs only in the near future. We have strongly considered getting the side by side BOB for Oliver and "Oscar" but the width just isn't practical for urban living. We are planning to purchase the Phil and Ted's Sport Double, it stacks the kids so has the footprint of a single stroller.

We have had a very busy two weeks. Last weekend, Oliver and I traveled to a friends' place in Sarasota for a Mama and Kids weekend. It was a lot of fun.....four 2 yr. olds, a 1 yr. old, a 5 yr. old and four Mamas. Oliver was thrilled to see Aby again and they spent the weekend playing. My friends, Kim, Anne, and Natalie threw me a baby shower on Saturday evening and we stayed up late both nights catching up. I am fortunate to have great friends. We are planning to make the "Miami Mama and Kid" weekend an annual event. By the time we arrived home Sunday afternoon, I was exhausted and ready for Oliver to spend some quality time with Daddy.

This past weekend we worked on the apartment and completed many items on my "nesting list" as Daniel refers to it! I washed all the baby clothes (newborn to 6 months) and put them in the drawer. Oli was helpful during the process of sorting the clothes....he wanted to try everything on and sort on his own. He was cute saying "share with Oscar" referring to his dresser. On Sunday evening, we attended a birthday party for Audrey (Kim's daughter) and had a wonderful evening with friends. It ended a bit abruptly because Oli expired due to an early nap, cutting teeth and 2 yr. old antics but we still had fun.

Oli's newest thing is saying "Mmm hmm" in agreement when I say something. It is very funny. He is crazy about Curious George and I can recite several of the books that we have borrowed from the library. Oli's potty training seems to be a "marathon" we have great days and wet days:( I am not giving up but have moments where I question what am I messing up....we will work it out and mommy will keep encouraging. One of Oliver's favorite things to do is "shower with mama, shower with Daddy" and tries to jump in with either of us when he hears the shower running.

The photo is from the Mama and Kids weekend at Nat's. It was hard work getting a photo will all the kids sitting at the same time.

Filling Daddy's shoes

2008-09-16T03:57:00.003-04:00

I woke up this morning at 3 a.m. with a muscle cramp in my leg and am unable to get back to sleep. I can hear Oliver coughing from his room and have been in to check on him several times. He is cutting his last two molars and unfortuantely seems to be struggling with a cold. I am hoping that he is feeling better because we have a road trip planned for this upcoming weekend. I am driving with my friend Kim and her two children to Sarasota to visit our friend Natalie. My friend Anne and her daughter Aby will also be visiting. We have planned a girls weekend at Natalie's with 6 children. I am not sure what Daddy will do all weekend with a quiet apartment....but I am sure it will involve a few beers and a pizza:)

I am 32 weeks pregnant now and feeling a bit more tired. My morning adventures with Oliver leave me exhausted by 11 a.m. Additionally, my energy is zapped by the crazy heat we have been experiencing this year in Miami Beach. I keep hoping that Fall weather will arrive and the 88+ days will depart but there seems to be no break in sight. UGH! Danl is giving me lots of opportunities to lay down and rest when he is home and I am trying to take advantage of this. At the same time, I am feeling like the days are flying by and I need to get things done....my stupid list of to do's!

Time to get back to bed to rest up for a full day with Oliver...

More teeth

2008-09-11T15:03:00.005-04:00

Oli's final molars are erupting and he has been a bit cranky this week. I am thankful that these are the last two teeth he will cut until approx. age 5. At times he is just plain angry but does communicate "teeth hurt" and he chews on his thumb for relief. We hate medicating him but have been giving him motrin to ease the pain.

We are enrolled in music class again and Oli seems to be enjoying this session even more than the first. One of the new songs is "My Bonnie" and I often sing it to Oliver at bed time and he is starting to sing along. Oli seems more aware of my belly now and touches it saying "Oscar little brother". I guess we will have some serious explaining to do if the baby is a girl!!

Oliver's favorite food is peanut butter sandwiches which he request every morning instead of his oatmel. He is also very fond of ginger snap cookies. His new favorite toy is the Brio hammer bench that we got him for Christmas. He loves to hammer the pegs! He has attempted to hammer many other things in the house but is reminded that hammer only happens on the bench.

Danl is training for the Escape to Miami Triathlon in October. The race is not his preferred distance but it is a challenging swim in the bay and the race is local. Unfortunately his favorite race in Orlando (the GFT) happens in late October when I am 37.5 weeks pregnant and we don't dare chance the travel. He is also planning to train for an ultrathon is 2009 (50+ miles).

I have been busy making my list of all the things I want to accomplish before the baby arrives. The list is long and I don't seem to be making much progress on it. I am finding myself more tired each day after spending the day chasing Oliver. I take him out (park, pool, museum) each morning to burn off his toddler energy and so he will nap in the afternoon. While I will have two to care for...I look forward to having my pre-pregnancy energy back.

1932 miles

2008-08-26T21:51:00.004-04:00

Our currently mileage on our BOB stroller is 1,932 miles. Our goal is to exceed 2000 before Oliver's second birthday:) My jogging miles are non existent but I still walk a lot with Oli and average a few miles each day. I have had more energy lately and have been better about getting to the gym to get my workouts in. I am walking on the treadmill at an incline of 10% which gets my heart rate up and allows me to comfortably breathe.

Lately I find myself torn between wishing the days away and wanting the clock to stand still. On one hand, I feel tired, big and uncomfortable and can't wait to deliver and meet our second child. On the other hand, I realize that my time with Oliver will soon change and feel like I want to hang on to our time together. I also know this will be the last time I feel the kicks and flutters of a baby in my belly and that makes the 10 weeks that I have to go seem so brief. My second appointment at the Miami Maternity Center went really well and I feel confident in Shari's ability to lead me through a natural birth.

Daniel is busy with work, school and training. He is getting up each morning at 5:00 to work out and running his long runs on Fridays and doing his long rides on Sunday. Some how we still manage to find time to spend together and with our friends. Oli and I are going to the pool with Daddy while he does his laps so we can spend the time together.

Oliver is BUSY! Yesterday he said "no thank you Mama" which was his first combination of four words. He loves his bed and is sleeping well throughout the night. I love waking up to the sound of his feet on the tiles OR "hi Mama" next to our bed. One of his newest things is "reading" books. One book he can read alone by the cues in the pictures. Some other books, I read part of the sentence on the page and he finishes the sentence.....he is very proud of himself. Below is a video of Daddy and Oli skateboarding. Oliver loves the skateboard and pushes it to the door when he wants to ride.

Oliver's first Tropical Storm

2008-08-19T10:48:00.002-04:00

Attached is a video of Oliver's reaction to his first Tropical Storm Fay. He couldn't have been happier to run on the balcony with the wind in his hair and puddles at his feet!

Mommy loves Friday

2008-08-08T23:28:00.003-04:00

Thank goodness it is Friday. It has been a long, tiring week. I am not sure why but everything seemed to be a challenge this week. Oliver has been trying my patience this week and reminding me that his 2nd birthday is coming:) In addition, I am looking into alternative options for my prenatal care because I have lost a lot of confidence in the midwife and the birth center I have been using. We are going to tour another birth center on Sunday. I am hoping that I find someone that I feel will provide me with the support I need to have a successful VBAC delivery.

On the upside....Oliver has turned a corner on potty training. He LOVES to wear "unders" and pleads with me to change into them as soon as he wakes in the morning. He is also telling me when he has to pee or poop and making it to the potty often. He has also been keeping his pull ups dry when he naps or we go out and telling us if he has to pee. I don't want to celebrate prematurely but potty training is going so much better.

Oli's favorite book is now Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed. I borrowed it from the library a few weeks ago and he is crazy for the story. I have since returned the book and taken out another Five Little Monkeys have a Picnic Supper but Oli still makes me tell him the other story at bedtime. His favorite toys are mega blocks and his matchbox cars. Oli continues to repeat everything and talk in simple sentences/phrases "love you too Mamma" "Oli fell down" "Oliver get down" "Oliver want pie" "More water please". He also says please and thank you most of the time and reminds us to say please or thank you!

I am now almost 27 weeks pregnant. The baby is moving all the time and I am really sure that it is a boy. We have started to tell Oliver that "little brother" is in mommy's belly. He loves to touch my belly and when asked who is in there sometimes he replies "baby or little brother" other times he enthusiastically says "PATRICK". I am trying to spend more time at the gym and pool to slow my weight gain. I am about 5 lbs. heavier than I was with Oliver at this point and that has me a bit concerned. My desire to work out is gone by 5 p.m. so I am attempting to work out earlier in the day so I get it in. I keep reminding myself how much easier the Miami marathon will be in January if I keep myself fit now.

Awake at Midnight

2008-07-31T23:54:00.003-04:00

Fortunately it is me that is awake not Oliver:) I remember these energy surges from my pregnancy with Oliver. I am dead tired at 5 pm but when 10 o'clock hits I am wired and can't get my mind to stop. It was a lot easier when I was teaching because I would come home from school and nap but as a stay at home mom I don't get that option. I try to rest when Oli naps but I always have school work to complete and laundry, dishes, blah, blah, blah.....

After many, many searches and discussions we have found Oliver's first bed and will order it tomorrow. It is a green, twin platform bed. "Green" meaning sustainable hardwood, low VOC finish, etc. The bed should be delivered in two weeks so then we will begin a new chapter with Oliver's sleep routine. I am hoping for a smooth transition out of the crib and wonder what it will be like to have him come to our bedroom in the morning (or at night).

I am including a video of Oli playing with his blocks. He loves to build "towers" with his blocks and then knock them over. Oliver really enjoyed building towers with Patrick and misses him. I know he will be thrilled when his brothers return in December.

Bye bye big brothers

2008-07-24T14:23:00.005-04:00

Yesterday Oli said good bye to his big brothers, Patrick and Kellan. He didn't understand when we took them to the airport that they wouldn't be home for dinner. He asked for them a few times last night and woke this morning asking Kel? Patrick? I know he misses them.

Oliver's newest skill is that he counted from 2-10 in English and Spanish on Tuesday. I don't mean to brag but I was really impressed. He has been repeating the numbers after I say them and occasionally going ahead and giving me the next number but on Tuesday he continued to count on his own. I am not sure why he is omitting the number 1 :) perhaps because he is almost 2!

Our potty time battle continues however today he has peed on the potty four times. I am planning to work over time on this project now that his big brothers have returned to NY and the bathroom is less occupied. I have read everything I can get my hands on regarding potty training and am hoping we can accomplish training Oli before the baby arrives.

Oliver's favorite toy(s) are these bright colored plastic geckos that he received from my friend Natalie. He LOVES them and carries the five geckos all around the house. One of his favorite things to do when we walk Lucy is to point out every gecko. Oliver has also learned the difference between a car and a TRUCK. Oli takes after his Daddy and loves trucks. (See photo below of Oli with his trucks and cars)

I am feeling the differences between my first pregnancy and the second. Overall I feel more tired but also have experienced some swelling in my legs. I determined the tea cup size coffee that I was drinking in the morning was contributing to the swelling in my legs so I am completely caffeine free. I miss my morning java!

No potty

2008-07-19T17:09:00.006-04:00

Our former progress with the potty has turned into a game of chase. The video shows Oli's typical response when asked if he wants to go potty. We are now using monkey stickers as a reward for sitting on the potty. Oli likes the stickers and has been less resistant to the potty.